ABSTRACT

Many conservation projects occur where the local people have extensive traditional ecological knowledge (TEK); yet most rely solely on scientific ecological knowledge (SEK). In many cases, a more constructive approach would be to integrate the two knowledge systems to gain reliable knowledge for better management. In order to promote this, the TEK of two peoples in Melanesia regarding four species of megapodes (Megapodiidae) was surveyed and compared with SEK. Results show TEK from observations of megapodes is reliable knowledge, being consistent with SEK, varying little within and among social groups and enabling people to answer most of the questions asked. TEK from interpreting observations was less reliable. Reliability of TEK varied according to the way in which the sexes and peoples interact with megapodes: for areas where groups interact most with megapodes, their knowledge is most reliable and vice versa. Successful integration of the two knowledge systems may improve the conservation of both biological and cultural diversity, while empowering indigenous peoples.