Pollination as a biocultural process: integrating local ecological knowledge of family farmers in northern Argentinian Patagonia for inclusive conservation

Abstract

Background Pollination is a complex and biocultural significant ecological process, essential for the reproduction of cultivated and wild plants. In family farming, pollination is crucial due to the economic and cultural dependence on pollinators. This study examines local ecological knowledge about pollination in three localities of northern Patagonia, Argentina. Methods Semi-structured interviews and participant observation were conducted with 30 family farmers in Villa Llanquín, Río Villegas, and El Manso. The interviews included open- and closed-ended questions about perceptions and practices related to pollination. In addition, free listing and visual stimulus techniques were used to further explore local ecological knowledge. The data were analyzed qualitatively through discourse analysis and quantitatively using indices, descriptive statistics, and generalized linear models to investigate the relationship between LEKP and cultivated area, management practices, seniority, and plant species richness. Results Sixteen local names were identified to refer to 15 pollinators. The insects with the highest cultural significance index were the honeybee Apis mellifera and bumblebees Bombus spp. About 97% of the farmers recognized the pollination process, and 93% emphasized its importance for horticultural production and the environment. Management practices carried out by farmers were indirect in 67.2% of cases and direct in 32.8%. Both types of practices favor pollinators and promote biodiversity. Finally, the importance of reflexivity and methodological flexibility in ethnobiological work was discussed. Discussion and conclusion These results underscore the importance of local ecological knowledge in pollinator conservation and biodiversity promotion. This study emphasizes the necessity of contextualized and specific approaches to understand the socioecological dynamics that influence local knowledge.