Traditional vs. non-traditional and a conceptual turn in the study of local mycological knowledge in Patagonia: memory and flexibility in times of change

Abstract

The interaction of traditional and non-traditional components could lead to hybridforms of mycological knowledge that are more resilient in the face of processes ofchange. Mapuche-Tehuelche inhabitants of NW Patagonia collect 17 wildmushrooms for self-consumption and/or trade, including three commercial specieswith no records of historical use: Suillus luteus, Morchella afin septimelata and M.afin tridentina; and the native Cyttaria hariotti for self-consumption. Twelve otherspecies of past importance are currently but occasionally collected to eat in situ assnack while other activities are carried out in the field; these NUS (neglected andunderutilized species) are retained by memory in biocultural refuges as part ofidentity and attachment to the land. Knowledge transfer by technical and scientificinstitutions, as well as links with the market society, facilitate partial connections forlearnings towards innovation of sustainable harvesting practices and value additionof commercial species, in particular among young women with multi-employment.The ethnomycological approach makes visible the flexibility of local knowledge torespond to socio-environmental and economic issues, and highlights theimportance of intercultural dialogue for the co-development of culturally sensitiveplans for food sovereignty and social economy.