Perception of ants in viticultural agroecosystems: professional knowledge, decisions, and practices
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25260/EA.25.35.1.0.2465Keywords:
myrmecofauna, cognitive conceptual model, perception, ecosystem services, viticultureAbstract
Ants are found in almost all agroecosystems around the world, but research on their functions and ecosystem services is limited and varies across different crops. In viticultural agroecosystems, most research has focused on species that are harmful due to herbivory or mutualism with other pests. We use a cognitive conceptual model to investigate the knowledge, evaluations, decisions and practices of Mendoza vineyard professionals in both conventional and agroecological settings. This analysis reveals a significant lack of knowledge about these organisms and their ecosystem functions, as well as the fact that control decisions and strategies are primarily aimed at eradicating them, without considering species, role in the agroecosystem or vineyard management type. This results in the loss of ecosystem services that multiple species can provide to enhance the complexity of the agroecosystem. In this regard, it is necessary to conduct a more in-depth examination of these organisms, their functions and management practices that enable them to reap the benefits, as well as to improve the dissemination of existing information and comprehensive training of the professionals who will make technical decisions.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Andrea Fruitos, Pehuén Barzola, Carla Dagatti
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