The Inga community of Musuiuiai in Colombia is taking significant strides in conserving the lowland tapir, a species sacred to their culture. Recently designated as an Indigenous and Community Conserved Area (ICCA), the community aims to reduce tapir hunting through outreach and collaboration with neighboring tribes.
Led by José Muchavisoy, the guardians of Musuiuiai use traditional knowledge passed down from elders to track tapirs in their biodiverse territory, which spans 18,000 hectares. The tapir, known as the Sacha wagra, plays a vital role in the ecosystem as a seed disperser, yet its population is vulnerable due to habitat loss and hunting.
Inga beliefs have shifted, making tapir hunting taboo, reflecting a growing understanding of the species' ecological importance. The community is employing camera traps and GPS technology to monitor tapir populations, demonstrating a blend of traditional practices and modern conservation techniques.
In collaboration with the Center of Intercultural Medicinal Studies (CEMI), Musuiuiai's conservation efforts are not only focused on the tapir but also aim to establish a biocultural corridor that protects over 100,000 hectares of forest. This initiative seeks to involve other Indigenous communities, promoting sustainable hunting practices and cultural preservation.
Through these efforts, the Inga community is paving the way for a model of biocultural conservation that respects both ecological and cultural values, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge in safeguarding biodiversity.