Moolks (Pacific crabapple, Malus fusca) on the North Coast of British Columbia: Knowledge and meaning in Gitga’at culture

I examined ethnobotanical uses, traditional knowledge and folk classification of moolks, Pacific crabapple (Malus fusca (Raf.) C.K. Schneid.; Rosaceae) for the Gitga’at First Nation of Hartley Bay. I conducted interviews with seven Gitga’at elders, who recognize up to five distinct varieties moolks, based on fruit characteristics and harvesting location, each with its specific applications. To determine ecological and morphological variability of moolks within its traditional harvesting area, I sampled and measured foliage and fruits from individual trees and different sites. While some fruit and leaf traits are correlated, I identified significant variation between and within trees making it hard to delineate the varieties as described by the elders. I conclude using these two knowledge systems – traditional ecological knowledge and scientific knowledge – in conjunction, can result in a more detailed understanding of a botanical species.