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http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/6163
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Title: | Integrative Management of Cocoa Agroforestry Systems: Promoting Long-Term On-Farm Diversity |
Authors: | Isaac, M. E. Dawoe, E. |
Keywords: | Understory re-initiation Simpson diversity index chronosequence |
Issue Date: | Aug-2009 |
Publisher: | Journal of Science and Technology |
Citation: | Journal of Science and Technology, Vol. 29, No. 2, Aug., 2009 |
Abstract: | In cocoa (Theobroma cacao) agroforestry systems, upper canopy trees and food crops are frequently
planted for shade, diversification of farm products, and improved soil fertility. As diversification
remains a top priority for farm economic and environmental sustainability, system
management plays a substantial role in farm diversity, requiring long-term analysis. We measured
species richness dynamics in a chronosequence (N = 4) representing farms aged 2 to 25
years old in the western cocoa-growing region of Ghana, West Africa. Subsequently, we conducted
farmer interviews to establish farming practices with regards to integration of non-cocoa
species. After farm establishment, increases were recorded in non-cocoa and Simpson diversity
index (for 2 years = 0.17 ± 0.167; for 15 years = 0.68 ± 0.026; for 25 years = 0.68 ± 0.036), but
no changes were observed in crop richness. All participants interviewed managed supplementary
species on their cocoa farms, with 92% of farmers purposefully establishing an upper canopy
stratum. We discuss the use of principles from natural stand development for sustaining such
diversity. Farmer managed crop re-initiation during farm maturation may promote higher diversity
within an existing agroforestry framework. |
Description: | An article published by Journal of Science and Technology, Vol. 29, No. 2, August-2009 |
URI: | http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/6163 |
Appears in Collections: | Journal of Science and Technology 2000-
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