Perception of biodiversity in the Pisloy community, Jipijapa, Manabí, Ecuador

Abstract

Biodiversity, which is essential for the provision of ecosystem services, is in decline. However, knowledge about how biodiversity is perceived and appreciated is scarce. This gap is addressed using priority species for conservation in the Pisloy community, Jipijapa, Manabí, Ecuador. The interviews with the experts (N = 56) allowed us to calculate the Local Conservation Priorities Index (IPCL). The collaborators (N = 152) contributed knowledge, attitudes, responsibility and community participation. A total of 45 species were registered, belonging to the biological groups of Birds (25 species), Liliopsida (13) and Insects (8) priority for their conservation. The collaborators only recognized 40%. The species with the highest conservation priority were the Aves Brotogeris pyrrhoptera, Chaetocercus berlepschi, Pachyramphus spodiurus and Pseudastur occidentalis, followed by the Brassia jipijapensis, Encyclia angustiloba and Oncidium estradae. Insects obtained the lowest IPCL. To conserve the species, it is proposed to carry out training for the local population, the creation of protection areas and continue with the activity of community tourism. This information is necessary to improve the relationships between biodiversity and the management of biodiversity within natural ecosystems.