O conhecimento ecológico local como ferramenta para o estudo da ecologia comportamental

Abstract

More and more Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) has become an influential tool recognized for its ability to complement scientific knowledge and/or assist in conservation strategies. With that in mind, we aimed to access the LEK on the behavioral ecology of mammals, verifying its convergences and divergences with scientific knowledge. Considering that some factors can influence the LEK, we expected that contact with nature will influence the LEK about the behavioral ecology, as well as we expect that people will know more about conspicuous behavior. The study was carried out in the district of Ribeira (Cabaceira-PB). Data collection was divided into two stages: (1) free list (92 respondents) and (2) interview on the behavioral ecology of mammals mentioned in the free list (150 respondents). To assess the convergences between the LEK and the scientific knowledge, we compared literature information with the LEK. The forms of contact with nature were: (1) time of residence, (2) occupation, (3) age and (4) frequency of encounters with the species. Behavioral characteristics were classified into: (1) conspicuous behaviors; (2) cryptic behaviors. We verified that people who carry out rural activities, live longer in the region and encounter animals more frequently have a higher LEK. We also saw that people are better aware of the conspicuous behaviors of species when compared to cryptic behaviors. Regarding conspicuous behaviors, the data show, for the most part, convergence between the two types of knowledge. In this sense, our findings provide strong arguments for the use of Local Ecological Knowledge as a tool for behavioral ecology. Thus, this study can help behavioral ecology researchers to consider LEK as an efficient method of accessing information about species. We also highlight the importance of keeping both knowledge systems as a separate source of information, considering LEK as a complement to scientific knowledge that allows a better understanding of the behavioral ecology of species.