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Mutualism between Humans and Palms: The Curious Case of the Palmyra Palm (Borassus flabellifer L.), and its Tapper
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Abstract:
Borassus flabellifer L., is a semi-domesticated palm of cultural and economic importance to local communities from the Persian Gulf to the Cambodian- Vietnamese border. Drawing from a qualitative study conducted in Southern India, we bring out its biocultural significance to the local people, and the mutualistic relationship between the palm and its tappers. Various parts of the palm are used as medicine and food by the local communities; it is celebrated in folklores, and even equated with gods. The tappers who add value to the palm by ensuring its produce is available to the local inhabitants, also take care of the semi-domesticated palm in its habitat. Energy is transferred from one partner (palmyra palm) to another (toddy tapper), and in return, the palm receives protection, seed dispersal and suitable habitat conditions to flourish. The claims of the tappers indicate that the relationship between the tappers and the palm is mutually beneficial.
Description:
Date:
2020
Authors:
F. Merlin Franco
Godson Samuel
T. Francis
Publisher:
Institute of Asian Studies, Universiti Brunei Darussalam
