Traditional practices and uses of “cerco” and “monte” by the criollos of San Marcos Sierras (Córdoba, Argentina)

Abstract

An updated contribution about the ecological knowledge of “criollos” of San Marcos Sierras about practices that originated and maintain the different landscape units is made. From semistructured interviews with key informants and participatory walks, the names of the managed units, the species, uses, and associated practices were documented. The “criollos” recognize and name 2 units of landscapes: “cerco” and “monte”. A total of 57 ethnospecies were recorded, 33 for the “cerco” and 55 for the “monte”. Both units share 54% of the species that receive different uses and management according to the unit where they are located. Medicinal, food, firewood and fodder are the main uses. All practices and uses were taught by the family group and belong to the traditional heritage of the farmers. Increased ethno-ecological and ecological analyzes are necessary to understand the changes in the floristic composition of the forest and / or the abundance of some woody species