Use of the "non-weed" concept in traditional tropical agroecosystems of south-eastern Mexico
Use of the "non-weed" concept in traditional tropical agroecosystems of south-eastern Mexico
- Agro-Ecosystems, 8, p.1-11, 1982 .
The use of a "non-weed" concept by traditional agriculturalists in a tropical lowland environment is discussed. Interviews demonstrated that the non-crop components of cropping systems are classified according to use potential on one hand, and effects on soil and crops on the other. A detailed vocabulary for the management of these plants is pre- sented. Such a classification indicates that local farmers understand the intricate role of non-crop plants in their agricultural activities, in direct contrast with modern day agricul- ture which considers all weeds as noxious, and thus to be eliminated. The ecological im- portance of this concept, and its potential contribution to a design for overall agro- ecosystem management is discussed.
The use of a "non-weed" concept by traditional agriculturalists in a tropical lowland environment is discussed. Interviews demonstrated that the non-crop components of cropping systems are classified according to use potential on one hand, and effects on soil and crops on the other. A detailed vocabulary for the management of these plants is pre- sented. Such a classification indicates that local farmers understand the intricate role of non-crop plants in their agricultural activities, in direct contrast with modern day agricul- ture which considers all weeds as noxious, and thus to be eliminated. The ecological im- portance of this concept, and its potential contribution to a design for overall agro- ecosystem management is discussed.