Edible Invertebrates among Amazonian Indians: a critical review of Disappearing Knowledge

For the indigenous populations of Amazonia, invertebrates constitute an important component of the diet. Information on entomophagy for 39 ethnic groups (and three other post-Columbian settlers) or about 21.4% of the 182 groups known in the Amazon Basin is presented here, but utilization of this non-conventional food resource is surely much more widespread. A database is given of all the information available for each ethnic group regarding the species included in the diet, scientific and the ethno name if known, stage of life cycle consumed, manner of preparation and, when known, host plant. This database lists 209 scientifically identified species. Information on an additional 426 species and ethno names, with an insecure link to Linnean taxonomy suggest that local knowledge is very extensive. The database represents not only an easy-to-consult resource, but also a support for further research. Caterpillars, termites, leafcutter ants, bees, wasps, and Coleoptera seem to be the more collected items, together with a few aquatic ones. The most intensively collected are those dependent on forest leaves and litter, representing in general the higher biomass, so much work needs to be done for other groups, including caterpillars, aquatic insects, grasshoppers, snails, and spiders. Knowledge of the relations between indigenous populations and ecosystems is indeed the base for the preservation of natural and cultural biodiversity. We are at the beginning of a survey that has to be expanded.