In defense of ecuaros and biodiversity in a Purhépecha community, Michoacán, Mexico

This paper focuses on the importance of ecuaros (home gardens) in a Purhépecha community in the western state of Michoacán, Mexico. Despite the loss of tradition in conserving ecuaros, these systems represent a potential economic benefit for community members, as well as contributing to the preservation of biodiversity. The role of ecuaros has been understudied but offers important lessons in the conservation of culturally significant plants and food varieties. The paper presents results of ethnographic research in the Purhépecha community of San Lorenzo to examine the role of ecuaros in food production and community traditions, as well as noting their current decline. It compares the diverse uses of ecuaros with regard to the various aesthetic, economic and seasonal aspects of ecuaro production. The paper considers ecuaros as social spaces through which knowledge is passed on from mothers to daughters and notes how the exchange of ecuaro products occurs, for example, in providing gifts that help strengthen family and community ties. The paper also discusses the relationships between ecuaros and outside markets, particularly the impacts of such relationships on women’s incomes and the decline of ecuaros. The paper concludes by reflecting on the challenges facing ecuaros and the need for new policies to recognize and support this important alternative in the face of declining food sovereignty and the loss of biodiversity