Forest use at the Pacific coast of Choco, Colombia: A quantitative approach

Forest use by Afro-American people on the pacific coast of Choco, Colombia, was investigated using a quantitative methodology bused upon informant con sensus. Information was obtained for all species greater than or equal to5 nn dbh in three plots totaling 1.8 ha. Eighty-nine uses were recorded: 62.8 % of the species. 74% of the families and 83.3% of the individuals have som e use. Most uses involve subsistence activities. The most important uses we re selective extraction of wood for construction, firewood, and materials f or technological application. Use values for species and families were depe ndent on their abundance. For some particularly useful species and families (Lauraceae, Annonaceae, and Sapotaceae), however, use value was higher tha n expected from their abundance. This may Suggest overexploitation of those species and families. Demographic studies of those species are recommended All recorded uses are listed and information on the use values of the spec ies is provided.