Biodiversity and economic value of home gardens in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

This study, conducted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, provided valuable insight into the multifaceted role of home gardens in supporting livelihoods of local communities. The biodiversity and economic value of home gardens was assessed through a survey of 284 households across three districts. The findings revealed that the home gardens were not only rich in species diversity, but they also served as a crucial source of various food items, contributing to household food and nutrition security. Households relied on a substantial part of their requirements of tender coconuts, vegetables, fruits, flowers, medicinal plants and oilseeds from their home gardens, underscoring the importance of the gardens. Furthermore, the study found a positive association between species diversity and economic productivity of the home gardens, suggesting that increased species diversity led to greater financial benefits for households. This study emphasised the need for sustainable management practices to protect and maintain the home gardens as a valuable resource.