Conhecimento ecológico associado ao uso e conservação das sementes tradicionais ou crioulas e variedades locais

Abstract

The local varieties of cultivated plants and the native seeds coming of these varieties are in a continuous process of genetic erosion, they have being replaced by high-yield crop varieties, genetically uniform and higher input demands. At the global and national level, several measures to conserve local varieties have being taken, given their recognition as important agricultural biodiversity components. However, several demands and limitations point in recent diagnoses in the use and conservation of these varieties, making necessary a greater understanding of the issues involved in this process. This research investigate the currently ecological issues discussed related to the use and conservation of local varieties and creole seeds. This is a qualitative study, using narrative review of the contemporary ecological knowledge present in the scientific literature as well as the Brazilian laws and public policies that support the use and conservation of local varieties and creole seeds. The results suggest that maintaining local varieties and supplying their gene pool are ecosystem services that brings benefits to farmers, consumers and investors such as reducing risks of pests and diseases, nutritional and culturally valued products, lower production costs. Efforts are necessary to ensure these services properly available and actions for the use and conservation of local varieties and production of native seeds. The interventions to raise awareness of local varieties value, between farmers and society, are essential in this process.