Posibles servicios ambientales de las aves en fincas de cultivo de banano (musa paradisiaca)

Abstract

This research studied the behavior and diet of birds in banana monoculture agricultural systems in order to understand the potential environmental services they can provide in these systems. The study was conducted at the San Joaquín banana farm located on the border between the cantons of El Guabo and Pasaje, through field observations aimed at recording the behavior and diet of birds. The information was compiled into a database, and descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed on the recorded direct consumption data. In addition, the prey items consumed were taxonomically identified at the order level, as were prey items considered important to agriculture because they are considered pests. The results showed that the birds present in the study area maintain a preference for prey items from the animal kingdom. Two species considered pests in agriculture were identified in their diet: Lissachatina fulica (African snail) and Rhynchophorus palmarun (black palm weevil). The interactions observed indicate that some birds, such as Momotus subrufescens and Turdus maculirostris, could play a direct role in the biological control of pests in banana monoculture, providing a valuable ecosystem service.