The scientific basis for Shipibo soil classification and land use: Changes in soil-plant associations with cash cropping

Reference Type Journal Article
Year of Publication
1989
Author
Journal
American Anthropologist
Volume
91
Issue
1
Pagination
83-100
Date Published
03/1989
Language
English
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Abstract
Since the Shipibo began cash cropping rice, their land use patterns have changed with proportionately less utilization of soft sandy soils, which are best for staple Musa production, and greater use of harder clayey soils, which are more suitable for rice and root crops. Statistical analysis of soil samples reveals the physical-chemical basis for Shipibo soil categories and indicates the effect of swidden agriculture on levels of important soil characteristics. While cultural principles for planting have summarized these important ecological relationships in the past, they are often violated with increasing rice production. Examination of time allocation and food consumption data shows that changes in Shipibo land use patterns are associated with higher labor costs during brief periods of the agricultural cycle and greater dependence on domesticated animal foods.
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DOI
Research Notes
ISSN
0002-7294
Short Title
The scientific basis for Shipibo soil classification and land use