Characterization of Beekeeping Systems in Central Ecuadoran Regions

Resumen

Six quantitative and twenty-four qualitative variables were used to characterize agricultural systems for rural extension actions in the provinces of Tungurahua and Chimborazo, Republic of Ecuador, for which information was collected from 131 farmers in both provinces. The information was analyzed through exploratory multivariate statistics (multiple correspondence and cluster analyses); three beekeeping systems were generated: SA 1 (33 %), SA 2 (22 %) and SA 3 (45 %). Characterization was made through central tendency. The first beekeeping system determined after the analysis was more experienced, uses transhumance, and has the largest number of annual harvests, though it is deficient in health counseling, investment capital, and know-how to feed bees. The second system was characterized by greater instruction level of owners, better income and training, though they lack investment capital. The previous results led to the conclusion that SA 3 was the group with the greatest needs of rural extension support. In that sense, the replication of this research at a regional scale, and analysis of production efficiency for the most significant groups, were recommended.