Indigenous knowledge of the Co Tu people in the management and sustainable development of the May nuoc mo species (calamus sp.) in Dong Giang and Nam Giang districts, Quang Nam province

Abstract

Dong Giang and Nam Giang are two mountainous districts located in the northwest of Quang Nam province. In this area, local people have recorded the appearance of the May nuoc mo species in nature. The May nuoc mo is a non-timber forest product species that brings high income and is a source of raw materials for to the production of handicrafts in Central Vietnam for export to the world market. The study aimed to supplement the indigenous knowledge of the Co Tu people on the management and sustainable development of the May nuoc mo species to preserve and promote local knowledge to contribute to the management and sustainable development of this rattan species. The interview method was applied along with a field investigation and evaluation of the May nuoc mo models. The results showed that many Co Tu people have experience in identifying the May nuoc mo species. They clearly understand the morphological characteristics, distribution locations, exploitation methods, and planting techniques that are appropriate for the natural conditions in Dong Giang and Nam Giang districts, Quang Nam province.