Dissecting factors that affect traditional crop diversity, using oca (Oxalis tuberosa) as a model

Traditional crops contribute to food security and agroecological sustainability, but their diversity is threatened by economic, environmental, and sociocultural change. Many authors suggest that increased access to agronomic and dietary resources decreases farmer demand for traditional crops, and is thus incompatible with diversity conservation. We use a case study of the Andean tuber crop oca (Oxalis tuberosa; Oxalidaceae), in Pisac District, Cusco, Peru, to ask questions about the practicality of in situ conservation in the modern context. Using a qualitative research approach based on participant observation, interviews, and focus groups, we examine motivations for, and threats to, oca diversity. Farmers reveal that decreased oca diversity in Pisac is not due to decreased valuation of the crop, but rather to decreased ability to maintain robust germplasm. We call for increased research emphasis on traditional crops to minimize preventable barriers to in situ conservation, especially when demand is not compromised.