Between flowers, humans, and honeybees: Local ecological knowledge associated with apiculture in two areas of Silípica department, Santiago del Estero, Argentina

Abstract

The production of honey for consumption is one of humans’ most intriguing activities in biocultural terms. Studies on Local Ecological Knowledge linked to Apiculture with Apis mellifera (LEKHA) are limited, particularly in Santiago del Estero (northern Argentina). In this work, we compared the LEKHA of beekeeping families in two different landscapes that show distinct socio-ecological characteristics: “rainfed” and “irrigation.” Through semi-structured and free interviews and the construction of local calendars, together with 85% of the beekeepers of these zones, we investigated the LEKHA, honeybee flora and methods of acquisition and transmission of management knowledge and practices. Participants mentioned 96 honeybee flora species (63 in rainfed and 71 in irrigation), mainly native species, which provide with nectar and pollen. The apicultural and floral calendar was similar in these two areas, although the areas differed in the time of year certain activities were carried out and the richness and abundance of plant strata. This similarity could be related mainly to the strong cultural attachment of inhabitants to some elements of their native “Monte” landscape which, despite having undergone some anthropic modifications, remains functional for beekeeping. The LEKHA in both areas was learned idiosyncratically and by oblique transmission. We show how an activity related to the environment recreates and stimulates environmental knowledge, such that flowers, honeybees, and people form a bond of mutual care.