Seed Use and Socioeconomic Significance in Kayapó Handicrafts: A Case Study from Pará State, Brazil

Abstract

Seed Use and Socioeconomic Significance in Kayapo Handicrafts: A Case Study from Para State, Brazil. We conducted an ethnobotanical survey of seed species utilized in necklaces and other artifacts commercialized by two Kayapo villages of Para State, Brazil. We also evaluated the local importance of these species and recent changes relevant to making handicrafts from local seeds. Fieldwork included participant observation, semistructured interviews, and specific interviews focusing on artifacts of 47 adults. The Index of Importance Value (IVs) was used to evaluate the importance, use, and knowledge of the surveyed species. Forty-two plant species are currently utilized. Of those, 32 were identified, being distributed in ten botanical families and 25 genera. The families Fabaceae (18 spp.) and Arecaceae (8 spp.) stood out for their floristic richness. Among the species with larger IVs, Ormosia flava and Sapindus saponaria were prominent. The exchange of seed knowledge between different generations and genders was also observed. The use of seeds as substitutes for industrially-manufactured glass beads enhances the value of traditional knowledge of plants and territories. The marketing of seed-derived handicrafts represents an alternative for income generation among the Kayapo Indians, while also promoting forest conservation.