Traditional knowledge on living fences in Andean linear plantations of southwestern Colombia

Abstract

Linear plantations are a common practice in several countries as living fences, delimiting agroecosystems. They comprise multipurpose perennial woods that provide assets, protection, and supply services. However, not much is known about some traditional communities like the Andean region, including the composition of species and the social and ecological benefits of the species used. This study aimed to analyze the traditional knowledge about living fences systems including the species composition and their uses in rural communities of Alto Casanare, Colombia. Field measurements, interviews, guided tours, and species sampling were carried out to describe traditional practices and forestry species. The use values were estimated through the coefficient of importance of the species. A total of 26 farms were found, covering an area of 9283.3 m. In these systems 30 species were identified, belonging to 23 families. Alnus acuminata was the most representative species, presenting multipurpose uses for both economic and ecological purposes. The transmission of knowledge about the used species is very heterogeneous among the farmers. Exchanging this information would increase the species versatility, and the socioeconomic aspects of these communities, increasing the agrobiodiversity and ecological services provided by living fences. The description of the transmission of knowledge provides a better understanding of the relationship of these communities with the natural resources, pointing out creative approaches to achieve local environment conservation in these agroecosystems and promoting socioeconomic development.