“CHAPARRO” BEAN (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) AMONG THE NA SAVI OF COPANATOYAC, GUERRERO, MEXICO: CONTRIBUTIONS TO ITS KNOWLEDGE

Abstract

Objective: To summarize the knowledge that Na savi from the Municipality of Copanatoyac, Guerrero have on the agricultural management and traditional use of “Chaparro” bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.).
Design/methodology/approach: We conducted the study in three towns from the Municipality of Copanatoyac. To gather information on agricultural practices, we applied a questionnaire to 36 peasants, while for bean uses within the production units, we interviewed 23 peasant women. We coded the responses and used descriptive statistics for their analysis. We wrote the corresponding descriptions based on the information obtained.
Results: Peasants cultivate “Chaparro” bean on fields not tilled the year before, located on hills or hillsides, under rainfed conditions and using landraces. The production process includes soil tilling, sowing, hilling, weeding and harvest, performed manually or with the help of animals. Grain yields are low because of abiotic, biotic and technological problems. The production is used for self-consumption, and occasionally some part of it is sold. The family eats beans 3-4 times in a week. We identified 12 recipes for bean preparation.
Limitations of the study/Implications: This was an exploratory study. Even though its results are valid only for the area of study, they demonstrate the existence of an important knowledge stock among those who cultivate and use “Chaparro” bean.
Findings/conclusions: The cultivation of “Chaparro” bean follows a logic of production in accordance with the environmental conditions that prevail in the region. Socially, this type of bean has a central role in the families’ sustenance, and as a meal, it has a wide repertoire of recipes.