Economic Botany of an Endemic Palm Species (Butia catariensis Noblick & Lorenzi) in Southern Brazil

Abstract

Butia catarinensis Noblick & Lorenzi is an endemic palm that occurs on sandy soils in coastal areas of southern Brazil, where its fruit are used as food. The objective of this study is to analyze the production chain aspects of B. catarinensis and to identify different stakeholders involved in its production in order to better understand the relationship between local people and this palm. The focus of this research is the Areais da Ribanceira, a common area where local residents harvest B. catarinensis fruit. The fruit are used on a domestic scale to produce B. catarinensis rum, and at an industrial scale to produce ice cream and popsicles, which are commercialized locally and in nearby municipalities. These products also reach the capital of Santa Catarina State, 80km from the harvesting area. The practice of this low impact activity can provide environmental, economic and social sustainability for the local community.