ISSN:
1572-9680
Keywords:
Kerala
;
homegardens
;
agroforestry
;
low input agriculture
;
sustainability
;
architectural analysis
;
human ecosystem
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
Notes:
Abstract An analogue approach to analysing the traditional homegardens of Keralavis-à-vis natural climax ecosystems is adopted. The traditional homegarden is apparently a climax ecosystem, where ecological succession is consciously manipulated by human beings. High intensity of vertical and horizontal space use, the highly dynamic chronological structure and the capacity to perform essential ecological processes make this ecosystem relatively sustainable. Homegardens in Kerala effectively serve as human ecosystems with their low input demand, staggered supply of outputs, and enhancement of habitat quality. However, recent trends in agrarian structure and the high market orientation exert pressures on the homegarden, and its sustainability as a human ecosystem is in question.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00706892
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