The role of local experts in the selection and use of fodder crop species: a case study in the Brazilian dry forest

Background: Native vegetation is the primary source of animal forage in Brazil's semiarid region. However, comprehensive ethnobotanical studies are lacking, hindering understanding of local knowledge on Caatinga plants and their selection criteria for animal feed. The study aims to investigate the differential use of native Caatinga plant species for domestic animal feeding and identify factors influencing their use in a rural community in the Northeast semiarid region of Brazil. Methods: The free-list technique was used to identify the known forage plants offered to the animals by the small livestock farmers. In order to identify the most important species and evaluate the criteria for selection of forage plants by small livestock farmers, the calculation of the Index of Cultural Significance of Forage Plants (ICSFP) was performed. Results: The findings revealed that the selection of forage species is influenced by various factors, including considerations for animal welfare and environmental changes perceived by small livestock farmers. The most culturally significant species identified were Portulaca oleraceae L., Cereus jamacaru DC., Manihot glaziovii Müll. Arg. and some species from the Poaceae family. Conclusions: Despite the potential of these species as forage, further research is needed to evaluate their nutritional, toxic, and medicinal properties, as well as their ecological impact. Additionally, more studies on the selection criteria for forage plants are necessary to identify potential species for inclusion in public policies aimed at sustainable livestock management, particularly in semiarid regions. Keywords: Ethnobotany, Local knowledge, Animal feed, Caatinga, Selection criteria.