Contribution of homegardens in the conservation of local plant diversity in a Brazilian quilombo

Aimed at scientifically contributing to ethnobotanical studies, this research intended to conduct a floristic and structural survey of the backyards at Castainho’s quilombola community, in the city of Garanhuns, in the state of Pernambuco, analyzing their contribution to maintaining local diversity. A mapping of these spaces was carried out, and simultaneously, owners' consent was requested for the study. Next, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted through semi-structured interviews, associated with guided tours for species collection and analysis of their distribution in these environments. The collected plants were identified with the help of area specialists. The data obtained were stored in an Excel spreadsheet. A total of 2,569 individuals were recorded, distributed among 148 species, 38% of which were native. Among these, fruit species stood out, making the food category the most cited, followed by medicinal and ornamental species. The main function of the backyards is to promote family sustainability, but in addition, the trees favor the microclimate, with native species such as Sucupira (Pterodon emarginatus Vogel), Sacatinga (Croton argyrophylloides Muell.), and Frei Jorge (Cordia alliodora) being exclusively maintained for the conservation of native vegetation. Backyards are also spaces for leisure, culture, and entertainment for children and adults. Thus, it is considered that those in Castainho preserve a considerable diversity of species for multiple uses, are important for the quality of life of families, and can also contribute to the preservation of locally threatened species due to the urban territorial expansion, increasingly encroaching upon the community.