Conservation of Gramineae and Associated Arthropods for Sustainable Agricultural Development in Africa

Grasses comprise a large and diverse plant group that is probably the most important to mankind, yet has rarely been the focus of biodiversity projects. Another largely neglected group in biodiversity studies is insects and other arthropods, which represent about 70% of the world’s biodiversity. Both figure strongly in agrobiodiversity, as beneficial species (crops and enemies of pests) and as noxious species (weeds and crop pests) that nevertheless may act as reservoirs of beneficial species. Yet species and races of grasses and insects are under threat due to increasing human pressure. The project proposed herein aims first to understand how diversity of Gramineae and associated insects in and around various agro-ecosystems and socio-economic surroundings contributes to ecosystem stability in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Mali, and how indigenous and novel agricultural practices using native biodiversity can contribute to stability and conservation, and finally to adapt and promote the practical application of this knowledge in self-regulatory pest control and sustainable agriculture, while building national capacity and public awareness to effect lasting changes. The overall objective thus will be the development and application of best practices for sustainable use of African grasses and their associated insect resources for agricultural development and grassland conservation.