Diversity and use of plant and animal species in backyards of Nunkiní, Campeche, Mexico

Abstract

Introduction. In rural areas, backyard agricultural production satisfies part os the food needs of families, provides health benefits, and contributes to the conservation  of biological diversity of plants and animals.  Objective. To quantify using ecological indices, the diversity of plant and animal species present in the backyards of Nunkiní, Campeche State, Mexico, and to analyze their main forms of use. Materials and methods. The information was obtained through a sample survey directed to the female heads of households in the community of Nunkiní, Campeche, México; fieldwork was carried out from August to November 2023 and 33 households were visited; the  card included sections on family composition, backyard characteristics, plants and animals inventory, and the ways in which plants and animals are used.  The Shannon and Margalef indices were estimated to determine diversity and relative abundance. Results.  The presence of 179 plant species and 20 animal species was recorded; diversity and abundance were high in plant species (H’ = 4,243; Margalef = 23,3) and in animal species it was low (H’ = 1,204) or medium (Margalef = 2,60).  Eight uses were identified for plant species and ten for animal species. Conclusion. In the sampled backyards, the majority of the diversity is made up of plant species, particularly those belonging to the Cactaceae family, while animal diversity represents 11,2 % of the total species recorded in the backyard , with species belonging to the Phasianidae family dominating. The main forms of use of the plant component were ornamental and food, while for the animal component it was its contribution to food and the generation of economic income.