Crop and non-crop productivity in a traditional maize agroecosystem of the highland of Mexico
Por:
González-Amaro R.M., Martínez-Bernal A., Basurto-Peña F., Vibrans H.
Publicada:
1 ene 2009
Resumen:
Background: In Mexico, the traditional maize cultivation system has resisted intensification attempts for many decades in some areas, even in some well-connected regions of the temperate highlands. We suggest that this is due to economics. Methods: The total useful biomass of several fields in Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala, are evaluated for productivity and costs. Results: Maize grain production is low (1.5 t ha(-1)) and does not cover costs. However, maize stover demands a relatively high price. If it included, a profit is possible (about 110 US $ ha(-1)). We show that non-crop production (weeds for food and forage) potentially has a higher value than the crop. It is only partially used, as there are constraints on animal husbandry, but it diversifies production and plays a role as a back-up system in case of crop failure. Conclusion: The diversified system described is economically rational under current conditions and labor costs. It is also stable, low-input and ecologically benign, and s
Filiaciones:
González-Amaro R.M.:
Postgrado en Botánica, Colegio de Postgraduados en Ciencias Agrícolas, 56230 Montecillo, Estado de México, Mexico
Martínez-Bernal A.:
Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Apartado Postal 55-535, 09340, DF, Mexico
Basurto-Peña F.:
Univ Nacl Autonoma Mexico, Inst Biol, Mexico City 04510, DF, Mexico
Vibrans H.:
Postgrado en Botánica, Colegio de Postgraduados en Ciencias Agrícolas, 56230 Montecillo, Estado de México, Mexico
All Open Access, Gold
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