Multi-purpose species in the Kuxur Rum agroforestry system on the dry corridor area, Guatemala

Abstract

Agriculture in Guatemala is the main economic activity, nonetheless 51% of the population lives in poverty and has diet limitations. A research has been done in the area of the dry corridor, nearby the cities of Jocotán and Camotán (Ch’Ortí’ area, from the former Maya civilization), characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall with periodical long droughts. Subsistence agriculture practice by the farmers is dependent on rainfall. The harsh weather is faced also with the “Kuxur Rum” agroforestry system based on Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Walp. in rows and intercropped food grains. Our research focused on native species in the under layer of the Kuxur Rum agroforestry system, and their traditional use by the Ch'Ortí' population. Although most of the under-layer vegetation is considered weeds, many of these native species are harvested by farmers for food or medicinal purposes. Data were collected during September-December 2019, through structured questionnaires and quantitative analysis of the botanical composition, comparing areas with the agroforestry system and others. The Kuxur rum has provided good conditions for many plant species, thus should be considered also a technique useful to help on the conservation of ancient knowledge of plant uses. This research has been possible thanks to the collaboration of the University of Florence (Italy), Cunori of the San Carlos University of Guatemala and the Italian NGO “Mani Tese”.