Vulnerability of the Açaí Palm to Climate Change

Abstract

Açaí fruit is vital for rural food security and livelihoods in the Amazonian Estuary. Local enrichment of forests to enhance açaí palm densities and climatic warming are subjecting palms to higher temperatures, and local people have reported large falls in açaí fruit production during hot years. Here we investigate this local perception, using over 400 interviews with açaí producers. Most producers reported a fall in açaí production in hot years, due to low initial production and failure of developing fruit. There was a widespread perception that intensively enriched groves (high açaí palm densities) produce more fruit, but that fruit loss was greater in these same areas during hot years - presenting a potential management paradox. Our study provides initial evidence of the prevalence, mechanisms, and management implications of açaí fruit production loss due to climate change. Further multidisciplinary research is needed to better understand this problem, and to minimize potential socioeconomic impacts.