Traditional ecological knowledge on stingless bees in two Ashaninka communities in the central rainforest of Peru

This article explores the Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) on the management of stingless bees and the cultural use of honey among the Ashaninka communities of Marontoari and Pichiquia in the central Amazon Rainforest of Peru. From March 2019 to November 2022, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven families dedicated to raising stingless bees. The communities’ knowledge includes harvesting honey, particularly from species such as neronto or pitsi (Melipona eburnea), and shinkenka (Tetragonisca angustula), emphasizing practices that protect tree integrity and align with seasonal cycles. The honey, primarily used in traditional medicine, is valued for treating respiratory ailments, reflecting a deep interconnection between cultural practices and ecological stewardship. Additionally, the Ashaninka identify over 14 plant species utilized by bees to construct their nests, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of local biodiversity. This ethnological report is the first to document these ancestral practices within Ashaninka culture, offering critical insights into their conservation efforts. By integrating TEK with elements of cultural narrative, this study underscores the importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge into sustainable resource management strategies in the Amazon, advocating for a holistic approach to biodiversity conservation that honors both ecological and cultural dimensions.