Núntaha'yi Traditional Agroecosystems in the Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve, Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyze the functioning of the Núntaha’yi agroecosystems in Ocozotepec, Vera­cruz, as well as the effect that the regulations imposed by the Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve have on them. The infield-outfield theoretical framework, direct ob­servation, interviews, workshops and field trips were used for the analysis. The results show that limitations in the change of acahual vegetation and restrictions of use of the core zone have intensified the agroecosys­tems closest to the community (infield), and restricted the use of the territory in remote places and of diffi­cult access (outfield). This causes that the landscape becomes homogeneous, unproductive and that the slash-and-burn system becomes unsustainable. The conclusion is that peasant and indigenous communi­ty management should be evaluated as a strategy to achieve sustainability, biodiversity conservation and long-term human support.