Ethnobotany of pre-altiplanic community in the Andes of northern Chile

Abstract

The perception of the surrounding environment and use of the flora by the inhabitants of Toconce, a Pre-Altiplanic community in the Andes of northern Chile, were investigated. Six ecological units, which are given the local names of Pampa, Tolar, Medano, Pajonal, Hoyada, and Paniso, are recognized by the people of Toconce on the basis of their different dominant plants, geomorphology and microclimate. These units are in turn integrated into 3 units of landscape utilization: Cerro, Campo and Chacra. The latter is an artificial unit, corresponding to the man-made terraces located on the steep slopes of the Andean canyons. The Campo is a pastoral area, mainly for llamas. The Cerro, situated at higher elevation, has ritual as well as economic importance. This altitudinal sector is the place for the gathering of llareta, the most valuable vegetal fuel in Toconce. Seven categories of plant use are defined: forage, medicinal, food, fuel, crafts, ritual and construction. The inhabitants of Toconce have maximized the use of the plant resources in each altitudinal level. This long-lasting cultural pattern is being gradually modified due to the influence of industrial development and growth of the neighboring urban centers.