Diagnóstico de la diversidad nativa de fréjol (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) y maíz (Zea mays L.) en tres comunidades del cantón Saraguro, provincia de Loja.

Abstract

The present investigation proposes: to diagnose the native diversity of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and corn (Zea mays L.) in three communities of the Saraguro cantón province of Loja through the application of focal groups, with 7 focus groups (3 with women, 3 with leaders and 1 with young people) both for the cultivation of beans and corn, in which 8 to 10 people participated per focus group. As a result, it was found that in the three communities under study they recognize 21 varieties of beans; 15 are present varieties, 5 with native varieties absent and 1 variety introduced, no improved varieties were reported. In corn, 23 different phenotypes were found, of which 13 phenotypes were present, 8 phenotypes were absent and 2 phenotypes were introduced, improved varieties were reported. Varieties or phenotypes are still maintained because farmers sow, harvest and re-plant as such. The diversity of varieties or phenotypes present is influenced by the forms of conservation, uses and destination of production. Seed recycling is the most common way to maintain seed diversity, where several storage forms are highlighted, characteristics of each community and family condition, beans are mostly stored in sacks and corn is made in skirts (pieces of wood) thin and long hung in the corridors or rooms of the houses). The main uses of the native diversity of beans and corn are exclusively for human consumption, with corn prepared typical dishes of the canton Saraguro. The production is mostly destined for family self-consumption and minimum quantities are destined for sale, seed, exchange or to share.

Keywords: NATIVE BEETLE VARIETIES - MAIZE PHENOTYPES - AGROBIODIVERSITY