Agricultural biodiversity—the range of crops, breeds, and practices—is key to resilience, productivity, and long-term sustainability. In Venezuela, diverse systems enhance soil health, reduce pest risk, and ensure adaptability in a changing climate.
1. Crop diversity
- Plant legumes, cereals, roots, and tubers in mosaic patterns to balance nutrients and break disease cycles.
- Use local varieties resistant to drought, pests, and poor soils.
2. Polyculture and intercropping
- “Three sisters” systems (corn, beans, squash) optimize space and nutrient complements.
- Integrate fruit or forage trees with short-cycle crops for shade, organic matter, and erosion control.
3. Soil and water benefits
- Diverse root systems improve soil structure and water infiltration.
- Living mulches and cover crops reduce runoff and nutrient leaching.
4. Pest and disease resilience
- Biodiverse systems interrupt pest outbreaks.
- Support biological controls and natural predators.
5. Climate change adaptation
- Heat- or cold-tolerant varieties ensure stable yields.
- Diversity allows staggered planting and harvesting aligned with rainfall patterns.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions about Biodiversity in Agriculture
Why is a diversified system better than monoculture?
Diversity lowers total-crop failure risk and enhances ecosystem health.
How do I choose which crops to combine?
Pick complementary species based on growth cycle, nutrient needs, and local climate.
Does biodiversity increase costs?
It may require more labor initially but cuts inputs and losses over time.
Which cover crops are recommended?
Oats, vetch, and sunn hemp for rapid growth and nitrogen fixation.
Where to source adapted native seeds?
From germplasm banks at ULA, LUZ, and Misión Agroecológica programs.