Unexpected allies : the conservation of amazonian stingless bees between biological sciences and cultural anthropology

Authors

  • Laura Volpi University of Milan
  • Marilena Marconi University Sapienza - Rome

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14672/ada20251pp21-36

Keywords:

biodiversity, conservation, Meliponini, ethnotaxonomies, interdisciplinarity

Abstract

The accelerating loss of biodiversity is causing significant environmental damage and disproportionately affecting Indigenous and marginalized communities. This underscores the need for an interdisciplinary approach to conservation biology. Based on our collaborative work on a stingless bee conservation project in the Amazon, this article explores the role of cultural anthropology in interdisciplinary research, emphasizing its challenges and contributions. We examine the epistemological tensions and methodological obstacles that arise when integrating academic and Indigenous forms of knowledge, and reflect on the cultural and political dimensions of such initiatives, as well as the importance of effectively communicating research outcomes. This case study demonstrates how a critical reassessment of disciplinary boundaries can foster collaboration between diverse research paradigms, enabling the development of multi-epistemic knowledge systems. In doing so, it contributes not only to more effective conservation practices but also to a rethinking of the conceptual divisions between “nature” and “culture.”

Published

2025-07-24

Issue

Section

Special Focus. Beyond Collaboration: Toward a Politics of Alliances