Understanding Traditional Plant Use and Management : The Dani-Baliem Perceptions of the Plant Diversity

Abstract

This paper report on the utilization of plants and the indigenous environmental knowledge of the Dani people in Baliem Valley, Irian Jaya. More than 550 plant species utilized by Dani people within the Baliem Valley were recorded; 24 were cultivated species, while 526 were wild species. These species provide material for plant medicine, foods, construction material, firewood, rope, dyes, clothing, tools as well as material for cultural and ornamental uses. The Dani's dependence on available natural resources is reflected in various established customs and traditions. One example of this is the clear division between conserved, cultivated, and uncultivated areas. Some of these indigenous conservation traditions, for example wilehoma (Casuarina oligodon protection) and wikioma (Paraserianthes falcataria protection) are presented here.