http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.22914 Original Article Traditional knowledge and uses of the Caryocar brasiliense Cambess. (Pequi) by “quilombolas” of Minas Gerais, Brazil: subsidies for sustainable management L. C. L. Pintoa, L. M. O. Moraisa, A. Q. Guimarãesa, E. D. Almadab, P. M. Barbosaa and M. A. Drumonda* aDepartamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais – UFMG, Bloco I3, Avenida Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil bLaboratório de Estudos Bioculturais, Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais – UEMG, Avenida São Paulo, 3996, Vila Rosário, CEP 32400-000, Ibirité, MG, Brazil *e-mail:
[email protected] Received: November 4, 2014 – Accepted: February 9, 2015 – Distributed: May 31, 2016 (With 1 figure) Abstract Local knowledge of biodiversity has been applied in support of research focused on utilizing and management of natural resources and promotion of conservation. Among these resources, Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Cambess.) is important as a source of income and food for communities living in the Cerrado biome. In Pontinha, a “quilombola” community, which is located in the central region of State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, an ethnoecological study about Pequi was conducted to support initiatives for generating income for this community. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and crossing. The most relevant uses of Pequi were family food (97%), soap production (67%), oil production (37%), medical treatments (17%), and trade (3%). Bees were the floral visitors with the highest Salience Index (S=0.639). Among frugivores that feed on unfallen fruits, birds showed a higher Salience (S=0.359) and among frugivores who use fallen fruits insects were the most important (S=0.574).