Evaluation of the safety and quality of Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa) using the tools of dna sequencing technology and aflatoxin profile.

Introduction: Brazil nuts (BNs) result from sustainable extraction and are widely exploited in the Amazon region. Due to the production characteristics in the forest and the nutritional characteristics of these nuts, the occurrence of fungal contamination and the presence of aflatoxins are extensively discussed in the literature as a great aspect of interest and concern. This study aims to evaluate the microbial profile through DNA sequencing and amplification of 16S and ITS genes for bacterial and fungal analysis, respectively, and the presence of mycotoxins using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FD) from different fractions of the nuts processed. Methods: The BN samples, harvest A (HA) and harvest B (HB), from two different harvests were collected in an extractive cooperative in the Amazon region for microbiological analysis (from DNA extraction and amplification of 16S genes, bacteria analysis, and ITS for fungi) and mycotoxins (aflatoxins AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2) using HPLC-FD/KobraCell®. Results and discussion: The samples showed a very different microbiome and aflatoxin profile. Genera such as Rothia (HA) and Cronobacter (HB) were abundant during the analysis of bacteria; as for fungi, the genera Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, and Alternaria were also considered prevalent in these samples. Soil microorganisms, including those pathogenic and related to inadequate hygienic-sanitary production practices, as well as aflatoxins, were found in the samples. However, they were within the established limits permitted by Brazilian legislation. Nuts have a diverse microbiota and are not restricted to fungi of the genus Aspergillus. The microbiological and toxicological profile can vary significantly within the same nut in the same extraction region and can be exacerbated by global climate changes. Therefore, it is necessary to advance sanitary educational actions by applying good production practices and inspection programs to ensure the sustainability and quality of the BN production chain.

A New Advancement in Germination Biotechnology of Purple Creole Corn: Bioactive Compounds and In Situ Enzyme Activity for Water-Soluble Extract and Pan Bread.

Germination is a simple and cost-effective technology that enhances the technological, sensory, and nutritional potential of grains, making them more attractive for use in the food industry. Germinating indigenous seeds is an alternative to increase noticeability and add value to these grains, which hold social and economic significance in the regions where they are cultivated, such as creole purple pericarp corn (PPCC) from the Couto Magalhães de Minas region in Brazil. This study aimed to optimize the germination parameters of time (24-96 h) and temperature (18-32 °C) for PPCC to produce water-soluble extracts and bread. Endogenous enzymes resulting from the germination process significantly enhanced (p < 0.10) the technological (total reducing sugars, total soluble solids, and soluble proteins) and biological properties (γ-aminobutyric acid, total soluble phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity) of the water-soluble extracts. The optimum point for obtaining the extracts was found to be at 85.3 h at 30.46 °C (with desirability of 90.42%), and this was statistically validated. The incorporation of germinated PPCC flours into bread was also promising (p < 0.10) and had a positive impact on the dough property (dough volume increase) and the final product, especially in terms of instrumental texture (springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and resilience), resulting in a softer texture (lower firmness and hardness). The addition of PPCC flours did not alter instrumental color parameters, which may lead to greater consumer acceptance due to imperceptible differences in color to untrained individuals, with the optimized point at 96 h at 29.34 °C, with a desirability of 92.60%. Therefore, germinated PPCC shows promise for use as a base for obtaining water-soluble extracts and in bread as a replacement for commercial flour improvers, while also adding value to a raw material that is part of the local culture and agrobiodiversity.

Cacao (Theobromacacao L.) climate zones and its associated agrobiodiversity in Arauca, Colombia.

Background: Cacao (Theobromacacao L) is one of the most relevant crops in terms of economy and social rural development in Colombia. Cacao is also an important crop due to its potential to replace illicit crops and it is related to less deforestation and preserves the biodiversity. There are several cacao districts in Colombia, one of these being Arauca. The Department of Arauca is the second largest cocoa producing region in Colombia; however, it is heavily affected by armed conflict. To raise the knowledge and technology available in the region, integrating data on the occurrence of cacao farms with climatic variables becomes a powerful socioeconomic mapping tool for maintaining agrobiodiversity and food security in the region. Consequently, this type of agrodiversity data and agroclimatic approaches help to better manage agrobiodiversity, as in the cacao region of Arauca. These tools are even more relevant in biodiverse regions, such as flooded savannahs and tropical forest ecosystems, which are currently undergoing drastic changes due to agricultural expansion and climate change. One of the knowledge gaps in Colombia´s cacao regions is that there are currently no agroclimatic maps made with a social and scientific approach. This study aimed to provide a database of the spatial distribution of cacao farms in Arauca, as well as agroclimatic maps that identify and locate cacao climate regions in Arauca. We also present a presence-only matrix consisting of twenty-six tree species, or agrobiodiversity, distributed across the study region and specifically associated with the cacao forestry systems in Arauca. New information: We present the first database of both climate and agrobiodiversity data related to cacao farms in Arauca, developed with a research and socioeconomic vision that generated a novel approach for the agroclimatic zoning of cocoa in the Arauca Region and Colombia. Using 1,538 cacao farms at the regional scale, we identified two national and six regional-scale climate and soil regions. The selection at the local scale allowed us to classify 180 cacao farms comprising nine agroclimatic clusters in Arauca. We found twenty-six tree species distributed across the cacao climate zones. This dataset and its related maps also represent the agrobiodiversity of cultivated cacao locally. This is the most complete climate and agrobiodiversity dataset of cacao farms distribution in one of the top cocoa-producing regions in the country. These outputs are crucial because they constitute a baseline for developing research in the biodiversity of agroforestry systems, pests and diseases, pollutant presence, genetics, post-harvest processing and cocoa quality and safety.

Diversity of vegetable landraces in the Pampa biome of Brazil and Uruguay: utilization and conservation strategies.

The historical meeting between originally American people, European colonizers, and slaved peoples from Africa in the biome Pampa in South Brazil and Uruguay involved a cultural syncretism and a great genetic diversity of landraces of cultivated species. Genetic richness evolved by selection and cultural processes in response to different environments, cultural backgrounds, and needs. This review summarized the knowledge on vegetable and maize landraces in South Brazilian and Uruguayan Pampa biome, to design a strategy towards the rediscovery, conservation, and sustainable use. Landraces diversity maintained in situ and ex situ is described, specific case studies are presented, and the main problems and tools towards landraces re-valorization are discussed. We show that traditional family farming systems maintain diverse vegetable species, mainly squashes (Cucurbita spp.), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), beans (Phaseolus spp.), onion (Allium cepa), peppers (Capsicum spp.), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), next to leafy vegetables and maize, among others. We propose the priority of systematic surveys as a basis for monitoring genetic erosion, increasing complementariness between in situ and ex situ conservation, and implementing sustainable conservation and utilization. The case studies highlight genetic diversity within each cultivated species, with different crop physiological responses; disease resistances, different quality traits and associated uses, from animal feeding in maize to a range of culinary uses linked to traditional culture in maize and vegetable species, and ornamental uses of specific Capsicum and Cucurbita. Some landraces were the basis for breeding, where improved cultivars allowed the competitiveness of landrace germplasm in the markets. Renewed industrialized products allowed the competitive and sustainable use of Capsicum landraces in Brazilian farmers communities. Strategies towards in situ conservation improvements and valorization are discussed; emphasizing the role played by agroecology, community seed banks and custodian farmers, participatory plant breeding, promotion of landraces specialties among consumers, and the need of research and capacity building, among others. Farmers' participation in the decisions is a key factor, along with the academia and the public sector. Landraces and associated knowledge are treasures to be used to benefit from farmers to consumers, directing the course of agriculture towards sustainable directions.

Land-System Changes and Migration Amidst the Opium Poppy Collapse in the Southern Highlands of Oaxaca, Mexico (2016-2020).

For decades, Mexico has been one of the major illegal opium poppy cultivation countries in the world. In 2017-2018 the price of the opium gum dropped abruptly to a historical low, causing a sudden collapse of production. We analyze the dynamics of rural land systems amid this price collapse through a multi-site approach in three neighboring municipalities in the Southern Highlands of the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. We use medium-scale spatial resolution satellite imagery for a quantitative assessment in a five-year period (2016-2020), complemented by secondary data and structured/semi-structured interviews with poppy growers and other key informants. Findings show that all three municipalities experienced pronounced declines in the areas of overall cultivated agricultural land immediately after the poppy price collapsed (2017-2018). However, there is a clear contrast among municipalities in how these areas recovered the following years (2019-2020). We identify three differentiating factors that explain this contrast in land-system trajectories: different levels of extreme poverty, livelihood diversification, and geographic isolation associated to (trans)national migration networks. These findings contribute to the analysis of the dynamic relationships among rural land systems, local resource management (including agrobiodiversity), and economic globalization involving illegal crop-commodity cultivation and migration, particularly in Latin America. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10745-022-00388-4.

Linking geographical origin with nutritional, mineral, and visual proprieties of pinhão (Araucaria angustifolia seed) from the south of Brazil.

The effect of harvest location on cooked pinhão seeds (Araucaria angustifolia) was investigated with regard to its centesimal composition, minerals, and color, and later correlated with environmental and soil variables. Significant differences between cooked pinhão from various harvesting locations were seen; also, principal component analysis was performed for the minerals, protein, moisture, total starch, and color parameters. The geographic location was one of the most important factors. Caçador presented greater differences: lower values for moisture, minerals, geographic parameter, and color characteristics. However, nearby localities, such as Cruz Machado with Bituruna and Lapa with São João do Triunfo, presented similar overall values for minerals and geographic parameters. Each regional geographic location was able to present unique characteristics so that the principal component analysis categorized it in specific quadrants, which is also in agreement with the CIELAB color space. However, hierarchical tree exhibited that CAÇ was the most distinct, due to the most distant municipality, presenting a unique microbiome. The pinhão is a source of various nutrients, which contributes to healthy dietetic daily values. It provides from 20% to 30% of dietary fiber, Cu (42.2%), P (31.1%), K (23.5%), and Zn (22.1%), while also providing quantities of Mg (12.9%), Mn (12.4%), Fe (11.5%), and Ca (6.4%). Therefore, it is possible to obtain food products based on cooked pinhão that contain many nutritional components associated with human health benefits. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The pinheiro-do-paraná is a conifer that is currently endangered. However, the commercial use of its seeds may be key to guaranteeing its preservation, in addition to strengthening the economies of households and small producers. The pinhão collected from a large area of Araucária forests, after subsequent boiling, removal of the almond, grinding, and freezing provides large amounts of carbohydrates, higher dietary fiber content, resistant starch, and large quantities of Cu, P, K, and Z, in addition to significant amounts of Mg, Mn, Fe, and Ca. All of these are desirable characteristics that increase the value of pinhão.

Genetic diversity, gene flow, and differentiation among wild, semiwild, and landrace chile pepper (Capsicum annuum) populations in Oaxaca, Mexico.

PREMISE: Capsicum annuum (Solanaceae) was originally domesticated in Mexico, where wild (C. annuum var. glabriusculum) and cultivated (C. annuum var. annuum) chile pepper populations (>60 landraces) are common, and wild-resembling individuals (hereafter semiwild) grow spontaneously in anthropogenic environments. Here we analyze the role of elevation and domestication gradients in shaping the genetic diversity in C. annuum from the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. METHODS: We collected samples of 341 individuals from 28 populations, corresponding to wild, semiwild (C. annuum var. glabriusculum) and cultivated C. annuum, and closely related species Capsicum frutescens and C. chinense. From the genetic variation of 10 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci, we assessed the population genetic structure, inbreeding, and gene flow through variance distribution analyses, genetic clustering, and connectivity estimations. RESULTS: Genetic diversity (HE ) did not differ across domestication levels. However, inbreeding coefficients were higher in semiwild and cultivated chiles than in wild populations. We found evidence for gene flow between wild populations and cultivated landraces along the coast. Genetic structure analysis revealed strong differentiation between most highland and lowland landraces. CONCLUSIONS: Gene flow between wild and domesticated populations may be mediated by backyards and smallholder farms, while mating systems may facilitate gene flow between landraces and semiwild populations. Domestication and elevation may overlap in their influence on genetic differentiation. Lowland Gui'ña dani clustered with highland landraces perhaps due to the social history of the Zapotec peoples. In situ conservation may play an important role in preserving semiwild populations and private alleles found in landraces.

Nonconventional Hydrocolloids' Technological and Functional Potential for Food Applications.

This review aims to study the alternatives to conventional industrial starches, describing uncommon sources along with their technological characteristics, processing, and performance on food products. Minor components remaining after extraction play an important role in starch performance despite their low percentage, as happens with tuber starches, where minerals may affect gelatinization. This feature can be leveraged in favor of the different needs of the food industry, with diversified applications in the market being considered in the manufacture of both plant and animal-based products with different sensory attributes. Hydrocolloids, different from starch, may also modify the technological outcome of the amylaceous fraction; therefore, combinations should be considered, as advantages and disadvantages linked to biological origin, consumer perception, or technological performance may arise. Among water-based system modifiers, starches and nonstarch hydrocolloids are particularly interesting, as their use reaches millions of sales in a multiplicity of specialties, including nonfood businesses, and could promote a diversified scheme that may address current monocrop production drawbacks for the future sustainability of the food system.

Crop genetic erosion: understanding and responding to loss of crop diversity.

Crop diversity underpins the productivity, resilience and adaptive capacity of agriculture. Loss of this diversity, termed crop genetic erosion, is therefore concerning. While alarms regarding evident declines in crop diversity have been raised for over a century, the magnitude, trajectory, drivers and significance of these losses remain insufficiently understood. We outline the various definitions, measurements, scales and sources of information on crop genetic erosion. We then provide a synthesis of evidence regarding changes in the diversity of traditional crop landraces on farms, modern crop cultivars in agriculture, crop wild relatives in their natural habitats and crop genetic resources held in conservation repositories. This evidence indicates that marked losses, but also maintenance and increases in diversity, have occurred in all these contexts, the extent depending on species, taxonomic and geographic scale, and region, as well as analytical approach. We discuss steps needed to further advance knowledge around the agricultural and societal significance, as well as conservation implications, of crop genetic erosion. Finally, we propose actions to mitigate, stem and reverse further losses of crop diversity.

Multi-Criteria Analysis for the Prioritization of Areas for the In Situ Conservation of Crataegus L., an Underutilized Fruit Tree in Mexico.

Complementary ex situ and in situ conservation, including the on-farm alternative, is a highly desired and dynamic strategy that allows the natural evolution of the conserved germplasm. Due to the high costs involved, in addition to the limitations of both economic and human resources, in situ conservation must focus on areas where the greatest benefits are obtained, and the efforts made result in better impacts. Therefore, using spatial multi-criteria analysis and expert knowledge, 22 and 23 criteria were obtained as important for the conservation of wild and cultivated hawthorn, respectively. Criteria weights were calculated by the analytic hierarchy process and expert knowledge. The results showed species richness, phenotypic and ecogeographic diversity, and areas not covered by the official protected areas network were the most important criteria for in situ conservation of wild hawthorn. Prioritized areas were particularly focused in Chiapas, State of Mexico and Morelos. The prioritized areas for the in situ conservation of cultivated hawthorn were mostly defined by criteria such as number of cultivated varieties, number of uses, phenotypic diversity, ecogeographical diversity, and areas with rainfed agriculture. These areas were located mainly in Puebla. From this study, we propose a list of priority areas for the in situ conservation of both cultivated and wild hawthorn.

Opportunities and Challenges to Improve a Public Research Program in Plant Breeding and Enhance Underutilized Plant Genetic Resources in the Tropics.

The American tropics are hotspots of wild and domesticated plant biodiversity, which is still underutilized by breeding programs despite being conserved at regional gene banks. The improvement of those programs depends on long-term public funds and the maintenance of specialized staff. Unfortunately, financial ups and downs complicate staff connectivity and their research impact. Between 2000 and 2010, Agrosavia (Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria) dramatically decreased its public financial support. In 2017, we surveyed all 52 researchers from Agrosavia involved in plant breeding and plant genetic resource programs to examine the effect of decimating funds in the last ten years. We hypothesized that the staff dedicated to plant breeding still suffer a strong fragmentation and low connectivity. As we expected, the social network among researchers is weak. The top ten central leaders are predominantly males with an M.Sc. degree but have significant experience in the area. The staff has experience in 31 tropical crops, and 17 are on the list of underutilized species. Moreover, although 26 of these crops are in the national germplasm bank, this has not been the primary source for their breeding programs. We proposed five principles to improve connectivity among teams and research impact: (1) The promotion of internal discussion about gender gaps and generation shifts to design indicators to monitor and decrease this disparity over time. (2) The construction of long-term initiatives and synergies with the Colombian government to support the local production of food security crops independent of market trends. (3) Better collaboration between the National Plant Germplasm Bank and plant breeding researchers. (4) A concerted priority list of species (especially those neglected or underutilized) and external institutions to better focus the collaborative efforts in research using public funds. (5) Better spaces for the design of projects among researchers and training programs in new technologies. These principles could also apply in other tropical countries with public plant breeding research programs facing similar challenges.

Servicios ecosistémicos de provisión suministrados por agroecosistemas de huertos familiares del Estado de México / Ecosystem provision services provided by agroecosystems of family gardens in the State of Mexico

Resumen Introducción: Los servicios ecosistémicos (SE) de provisión suministrados por los agroecosistemas de huertos familiares (AEHF) se refieren a los beneficios tangibles que las personas obtienen del ecosistema. Aunque los AEHF, han sido ampliamente estudiados, pocos son los trabajos que evidencian su abordaje desde una perspectiva integral, la cual incorpore características biofísicas y económicas al mismo tiempo. Objetivo: Realizar un análisis integral los servicios ecosistémicos de provisión suministrados por agroecosistemas de huertos familiares del Estado de México. Métodos: Se recopilo información sobre los SE de provisión (identificación, usos, destinos y generación de ingresos) mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas, cuestionarios, inventarios de especies, observaciónes directas, y recorridos en campo entre Marzo a Diciembre de 2019 en tres comunidades rurales, con la participación de 42 familias propietarias de los huertos familiares. Resultados: Se identificaron un total de seis SE de provisión asociados a 212 especies, las cuales fueron distribuidas en 172 géneros y 82 familias. Los Principales usos que los propietarios de los huertos dieron a los SE de provisión fueron ornamentales (51 %), seguidos de los alimenticios (39 %) y medicinales (32 %), donde especies como Cymbopogon citratus, Persea americana, Punica granatum, Zea mays e Inga jinicuil, tuvieron los mayores valores de uso (V. U. = 4). El destino de la producción fue autoconsumo, venta e intercambio; siendo el primero, la principal estrategia de sobrevivencia utilizada por los hogares. La venta de productos comestibles en fresco, así como de sus derivados represento ingresos brutos promedio de 1 333.47 USD/año para los propietarios de los huertos familiares. Conclusiones: Los servicios ecosistémicos de provisión proporcionados por los huertos familiares son vistos como una fuente importante de recursos, los cuales permiten satisfacer necesidades múltiples de los hogares rurales, catalogados en pobreza extrema.

Abstract Introduction: Provisioning ecosystem services (ES) provided by agroecosystems of family orchards (AEFO) refer to the tangible benefits that people obtain from the ecosystem. Although AEFO have been widely studied, few studies show their approach from an integral perspective, which incorporates biophysical and economic characteristics at the same time. Objective: To carry out an integral analysis of provisioning ecosystem services provided by agroecosystems of family orchards from State of Mexico. Methods: Information about provisioning ecosystem services (identification, uses, destination and income generation) were collected between March to December 2019 from three rural communities by involving 42 families with a family orchard using semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, species inventories, direct observation and field trips. Results: A sum of six provisioning ecosystem services were identified, which were associated to 212 species, distributed in 172 genera and 82 families. The main uses that the owners of the orchards gave to provisioning ES were ornamental (51 %), followed by food (39 %) and medicinal (32 %), where species such as Cymbopogon citratus, Persea americana, Punica granatum, Zea mays e Inga jinicuil, had the highest use values (U. V. = 4). The destination of the production was self-consumption, sale and exchange, being the first the main survival strategy used by households. Sale of edible products in fresh, as well as their derivatives, represented an average gross income of 1 333.47 USD/year for the owners of the family orchards. Conclusions: Provisioning ecosystem services provided by family orchards seen as an important source of resources, which allow the households of rural communities classified in extreme poverty to cover multiple needs.

More than Maize, Bananas, and Coffee: The Inter- and Intraspecific Diversity of Edible Plants of the Huastec Mayan Landscape Mosaics in Mexico1.

More than Maize, Bananas, and Coffee: The Inter- and Intraspecific Edible Plant Diversity in Huastec Mayan Landscape Mosaics in Mexico. Global emergencies such as biodiversity loss and climate crisis urge us to identify and mainstream crop genetic resources in complex indigenous farming systems to understand their role as genetic reservoirs and identify synergies in productive landscapes between development, conservation, and food security. We aimed to characterize the inter- and intraspecific diversity of food plants of the Tének (or Huastec) in Mexico and their distribution within and between the different land-use systems along a tropical altitudinal gradient. Tének farmers manage a highly diverse and dynamic food biota in swidden maize fields, agroforestry systems, and home gardens. Even with a small sample size, our study provides a complete analysis of the food crop diversity in the research area. The Tének cultivate a high number of 347 registered species and variants, most of them at medium altitude. Intraspecific diversity dominates (69%). All land-use systems of the agroecosystem complex serve as a specific pool for plant genetic resources, and there is a low similarity between and within systems and localities, especially at the intraspecific level. The proportion of rare and unique food plants is high. We recommend an agroecosystem approach and prioritization for conservation as well as other efforts related to the in situ crop genetic capital. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12231-021-09520-9.

Más que maíces, plátanos y café: La diversidad inter e intraespecífica de plantas comestibles en los mosaicos de paisaje de los mayas huastecos en México. Las emergencias globales como la pérdida de biodiversidad y la crisis climática obligan a identificar y a reconocer los recursos fitogenéticos en los sistemas complejos agrícolas indígenas, para comprender su papel como reservorios genéticos e identificar sinergias en los paisajes productivos entre el desarrollo, la conservación y la seguridad alimentaria. El objetivo fue caracterizar la diversidad inter e intraespecífica de plantas alimenticias de los Tének (o Huastecos) en México y su distribución dentro y entre los diferentes sistemas agrícolas a lo largo de un gradiente altitudinal. Los agricultores Tének manejan una biota alimentaria muy diversa y dinámica en milpas, sistemas agroforestales y huertos familiares. Aun con el tamaño de muestra pequeño en este estudio, se proporciona un análisis completo de la diversidad de cultivos alimentarios en el área de estudio. Los Tének cultivan un elevado número de 347 especies y variantes registradas, la mayoría de ellas en la altitud mediana. La diversidad intraespecífica (69%) es dominante. Todos los sistemas de manejo del complejo agroecosistémico sirven como reserva específica de recursos fitogenéticos, y existe una baja similitud entre y dentro de los sistemas y localidades, especialmente en el nivel intraespecífico. La proporción de plantas alimenticias raras y únicas es alta. Se recomienda un enfoque agroecosistémico y de priorización para la conservación y otros esfuerzos relacionados con el capital genético de cultivos in situ.

Homegarden diversity and food security in southern Mexico.

Home gardens are recognised in the literature for their contribution to food security, yet the process by which agrobiodiversity and household characteristics mediate this relationship is less well understood. This paper contributes to fill this research gap by drawing on a multi-site case study in the Yucatán region in Mexico. By applying regression analysis, the significance of the association between home garden diversity and food security is confirmed. Plant diversity is found to have a positive association with food consumption scores and the frequency of vegetable intakes. The number of animals used for food purposes is also found to have positive and significant associations with food consumption scores and frequency of meat intakes. However, the dimension and the significance of these positive associations were found to vary among communities and quantiles of the distribution of food security measures. In the households studied, younger individuals and better-educated people, males and Spanish speakers were more likely to engage in jobs in urban areas. Engagement in urban jobs was found to involve complementarities with the overall plant diversity of home gardens, but also trade-offs with the diversity of vegetables and other herbs used for food purposes and with the abundance of animals raised for food purposes. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12571-021-01148-w.

Ethnoecology of miriti (Mauritia flexuosa, L.f.) fruit extraction in the Brazilian Amazon: knowledge and practices of riverine peoples contribute to the biodiversity conservation.

BACKGROUND: This article presents, from an ethnoecological perspective, the worldviews, traditional knowledge, and cultural practices of Amazonian riverine people involved in the extraction of miriti fruits (Mauritia flexuosa L.f.), in a context of increasing market demand for miriti fruits and of pressure for the intensification of açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) production on the Sirituba island, in Abaetetuba, Brazil. METHODS: Methods used were participant observation and non-directive interviews with 22 extractive families of miriti from the Santa Maria and Costa Sirituba communities, on Sirituba Island, in Abaetetuba, Pará, Brazil. Non-structured interviews were used to analyze the knowledge about the species, history of miriti extraction, the traditions, and innovations related to this activity over time. Participant observation took place when riverine individuals were working with miriti fruits, in order to grasp the "codes" that permeate the human-nature relationships embedded in this production system. RESULTS: It was verified that the riverine peoples have a great knowledge about the palm tree, which is reflected in their own classification systems and management practices that allow the sustainable extraction of the fruits, avoiding, for example, cutting the miriti palms. In addition, a reciprocity relationship was observed between riverine peoples and miriti palm that are personified and preserved, contributing to the conservation of the species in the floodplain, even with the intensification of açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) production. Another important aspect is the collective work involving all the members of the family, which allows the appropriation of the knowledge about the extraction of miriti by the young, allowing the resistance of the tradition that remains strong, contributing to the sustainability of the practice and conservation of biodiversity in the Amazonian floodplain. CONCLUSION: The k-c-p complex inherent to the riverine universe allows, even in face of the growing commercial demand for miriti fruits and the unchallenged increase in the extraction of this product, the conservation of floodplain biodiversity. Thus, we emphasize the importance of traditional knowledge and practices for biodiversity preservation, and they use them to guide public policies and natural resource management systems, aiming for sustainable ways to manage and use biodiversity.

Diversidad fenotípica de papas nativas en las comunidades indígenas de la etnia de los Pastos (Nariño, Colombia): Agricultura ecológica para la seguridad alimentaria y el desarrollo rural / Phenotypic diversity of native potatoes in indigenous communities of the Pastos ethnic group (Nariño, Colombia): Ecological agriculture for food security and rural development

Resumen En este trabajo se describe el modo de conservación in situ del sistema de producción y la diversidad fenotípica de papas nativas en los resguardos indígenas de la etnia de los Pastos. En el estudio se utilizaron dos metodologías: 1) una caracterización de los sistemas tradicionales de producción mediante investigación acción participativa en los resguardos indígenas de Males Córdoba y El Gran Cumbal y 2) una caracterización morfológica de las papas nativas mediante 26 descriptores cualitativos. Se encontró que el 16% de las familias cultivan al menos una variedad de papa nativa, distribuidas en zonas de subpáramo y páramos entre 2900 y 3500 m de altitud, en un agroecosistema de producción autóctono llamado "Shagra", con manejo tradicional de labranza mínima del suelo "Guachado" y áreas cultivadas inferiores a 600 m2. Se identificaron 38 variedades clasificadas en dos tipos, según los indígenas: chauchas y guatas, que representaron el 65 y el 35% respectivamente. Con el análisis de conglomerados se identificaron siete grupos discriminados por chauchas, guatas, lugar de procedencia y características morfológicas. Estas comunidades indígenas preservan el conocimiento ancestral y los recursos genéticos, cultivando una alta diversidad de papas nativas en asociación con cultivos andinos, lo que contribuye a la seguridad y soberanía alimentaria.

Abstract This paper describes the in situ conservation mode of the production system and phenotypic diversity of native potatoes in the indigenous reserves of the Los Pastos ethnic group. Two methodologies were used in the study: 1) a characterization of traditional production systems through participatory action research in the indigenous reservations of Males Córdoba and El Gran Cumbal, and 2) a morphological characterization of native potatoes through 26 qualitative descriptors. We found that 16% families cultivate at least one variety of native potato, distributed in sub-páramo and páramo areas between 2,900 and 3,500 m above sea level, in an autochthonous production agroecosystem named "Shagra", with traditional minimum soil tillage management ("Guachado") and cultivated areas less than 600 m2. Thirty eight varieties were identified and classified in two types, according to the indigenous people: chauchas and guatas, representing 65 and 35%, respectively. The cluster analysis identified seven groups, discriminated by chauchas, guatas, place of origin, and morphological characteristics. These indigenous communities preserve their traditional knowledge and genetic resources by growing a diversity of native potatoes in association with other Andean crops, which contributes to food security and sovereignty.

Inventarios e índices de diversidad agrícola en fincas campesinas de dos municipios del Valle del Cauca, Colombia / Inventories and indices of agricultural diversity in peasant farms in two municipalities of Valle del Cauca, Colombia / Inventários e índices de diversidade agrícola em fazendas camponesas em dois municípios de Valle del Cauca, Colombia

Resumen Con el objetivo de conocer la diversidad de especies y variedades manejadas a nivel de finca por los agricultores de 2 municipios del Valle del Cauca, Colombia y el uso que las familias le dan a estas, se realizaron inventarios de agrobiodiversidad y se estimaron índices de riqueza y abundancia de dichas especies. Se evaluaron siete fincas de las veredas El Diamante, Alto del Oso y San Pablo en el Municipio de Restrepo y dos fincas en los corregimientos Fenicia y Puerto Fenicia, en el Municipio de Riofrío. Los inventarios e índices evaluados en los dos municipios muestran que existe gran riqueza y abundancia específica, y que no hay especies dominantes. Los inventarios de agrobiodiversidad y la aplicación de índices se deben constituir como herramientas indispensables para el diseño de la estructura de los sistemas sostenibles como clara estrategias para la mitigación al cambio climático basados en el uso y manejo de la agrobiodiversidad local y la generación de medios de vida para los agricultores, y como aporte para la seguridad y soberanía alimentaria.

Abstract With the objective of knowing the diversity of species and varieties managed at the farm level by the farmers of 2 municipalities of Valle del Cauca, Colombia and the use that families give them, agrobiodiversity inventories were carried out and wealth indices were estimated and abundance of these species. Seven farms of the El Diamante, Alto del Oso and San Pablo villages in the Municipality of Restrepo and two farms in the Fenicia and Puerto Fenicia districts, in the Municipality of Riofrío were evaluated. The inventories and indices evaluated in the two municipalities show that there is great wealth and specific abundance, and that there are no dominant species. Agrobiodiversity inventories and the application of indexes should be constituted as indispensable tools for the design of the structure of sustainable systems as clear strategies for climate change mitigation based on the use and management of local agrobiodiversity and the generation of means of life for farmers, and as a contribution to food security and sovereignty

Resumo Com o objetivo de conhecer a diversidade de espécies e variedades manejadas no nível da fazenda pelos agricultores de 2 municípios de Valle del Cauca, Colômbia e o uso que as familias lhes dão, foram realizados inventários de agrobiodiversidade e estimados índices de riqueza e abundância dessas espécies. Foram avaliadas sete fazendas das aldeias El Diamante, Alto del Oso e San Pablo no município de Restrepo e duas fazendas nos distritos de Fenicia e Puerto Fenicia, no município de Riofrío. Os inventários e índices avaliados nos dois municípios mostram que há grande riqueza e abundância específica e que não existem espécies dominantes. Os inventários de agrobiodiversidade e a aplicação de índices devem ser constituídos como ferramentas indispensáveis para o desenho da estrutura de sistemas sustentáveis, como estratégias claras para a mitigação das mudanças climáticas, baseadas no uso e gestão da agrobiodi-versidade local e na geração de meios de vida para os agricultores e como uma contribuição para a segurança e soberania alimentar.

Handmade Comal Tortillas in Michoacán: Traditional Practices along the Rural-Urban Gradient.

Certain components of global food security continue to be threatened. Globalization has impacted food patterns, leading to greater homogenization of diets and the standardization of processes of food transformation, both in the countryside and in the cities. In Mexico, this has led to a drop in the use of native corn landraces and in the value associated with traditional practices around their growing and the processing and consumption of tortillas. The aim of this work was to analyze the main characteristics of the handmade comal tortilla system along the rural-urban gradient taking into account: (1) The type of seed and production, (2) manufacturing processes, (3) marketing channels and purpose of sales, and (4) perceptions regarding the quality of the product. Research was conducted on 41 handmade tortilla workshops located in rural areas in the Lake Pátzcuaro Basin and in urban and peri-urban areas of a medium-sized city in Michoacán (Mexico). Results showed that the origin of the grain follows a gradient-like pattern: In rural areas, tortillas are made with local and native corn predominate, while in urban contexts most tortillas come from hybrid corn produced in Sinaloa or Jalisco. There is a generalized preference for white tortillas, but blue tortillas are used for personal consumption in rural areas and as a gourmet product in the city. 100% of the rural workshops make their own nixtamal, while almost 50% of the peri-urban and urban businesses buy pre-made nixtamal dough. Surprisingly, 50% of the rural handmade tortilla workshops admit that they add nixtamalized corn flour and/or wheat flour to their tortilla mix. We conclude that not all handmade comal tortillas are produced equally and, although in rural areas traditions are better preserved, these also have contradictions. We also conclude that it is important to promote the revaluation of agrobiodiversity, traditional gastronomy, and food security without sacrificing quality, nutrition, and flavor.

Conservation of the Cassava Diversity in The Traditional Cultivation Systems of the Amazon / Conservación de la diversidad de yuca en los sistemas tradicionales de cultivo de la amazonia

RESUMEN La yuca es determinante para la seguridad alimentaria de cientos de millones de personas alrededor del mundo. A pesar de que el principal medio de propagación del cultivo es a través de semilla asexual por estacas (tallos maduros) se ha revelado una relativamente alta diversidad intraespecífica, principalmente en los sistemas de cultivo de manejo tradicional. En esta revisión se documentan algunos estudios realizados sobre la diversidad de la yuca, tanto por marcadores moleculares como morfológicos, centrándose en aquellos realizados en el Amazonas. También se exponen los principales factores que han determinado el aprovechamiento y conservación de esta diversidad, tales como la aparición espontánea de semillas de origen sexual, el sistema de chagras indígenas, la memoria biocultural y la facilidad de intercambio de semilla entre comunidades. Finalmente, se pone de manifiesto que en los sistemas de manejo tradicional la conservación y uso de la diversidad intraespecífica se constituye en un elemento prioritario que se ha perdido en los sistemas de cultivo a gran escala. En los sistemas de manejo tradicional existe un vínculo etnobotánico que pervive e invita a buscar prácticas alternativas que aseguran un mantenimiento de la diversidad, permitiendo una productividad eficiente e incluso se hace un mejor manejo para disminuir los riesgos de incidencia de algunas plagas y enfermedades.

ABSTRACT Cassava is crucial for the food security of hundreds ofmillions of people around the world. Even though the main source of propagation of the crop is through asexual seed by stakes (stems-cuttings) a relative high intraspecific diversity has been identified, mainly in the traditionally managed cultivation systems. Some studies on the diversity of cassava, based on molecular and morphological markers, are documented focusing on those made in the Amazon in this review. Also, the main factors that have determined the use and conservation of this diversity are exposed, such as the spontaneous appearance of seeds of sexual origin, the system of indigenous chagras, the biocultural memory and the ease of seed exchange between communities. From this perspective, it is evident that in traditional management systems the conservation and use of intraspecific diversity is a priority element that has been lost in large-scale farming systems. In traditional management systems, there is an ethnobotanical link that survives and invites us to seek alternative practices that ensure the maintenance of diversity, allowing efficient productivity and even better management to reduce the risk of incidence of some pests and diseases.

Higher agrobiodiversity is associated with improved dietary diversity, but not child anthropometric status, of Mayan Achí people of Guatemala.

OBJECTIVE: Child undernutrition remains one of the greatest challenges for public health nutrition in rural areas in developing countries. Interventions aiming to increase and conserve agrobiodiversity seem to be promising alternatives to improve child nutrition. However, the existing literature on these interventions is not conclusive about their effectiveness in combating child undernutrition. We tested the hypothesis that 'higher agrobiodiversity is associated with greater dietary diversity and better anthropometric status' in rural Guatemala.Design/Setting/SubjectsIn the summer of 2016, we conducted a cross-sectional study with a sample of 154 children (6-60 months). We conducted dietary recalls and structured interviews, measured children's weight and height, and visited food production systems (Milpas, home gardens, coffee plantations). Crop species richness, nutritional functional diversity, dietary diversity scores and anthropometric status were calculated. RESULTS: Higher food self-sufficiency, nutritional functional diversity and dietary diversity scores were positively correlated with higher crop and animal species richness. Contrarily, remoteness to the local market was negatively correlated with dietary diversity scores. However, higher dietary diversity scores were not correlated with better child anthropometric status. Better child anthropometric status was positively correlated with improved sanitary conditions and maternal education; and negatively correlated with large household size and frequent child morbidity. CONCLUSIONS: Agricultural diversification could diversify diets, increase nutrient availability and improve child anthropometry. However, these interventions need to be accompanied by sanitation improvements, family planning, nutritional education and women's empowerment to strengthen their positive effect on diet and nutrition.