Importance of Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Promoting Biodiversity Conservation Outside Protected Areas

We assessed traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) across different age and gender groups, focusing on selected plant species within major terrestrial ecosystems in Tanzania. A multi-stage stratified random sampling method was used to select ethnic groups, representative plant species, and participants for focus group discussions (FGDs). We conducted 24 FGDs and walk-in-the-woods exercises to verify the presence of documented species and assess their traditional uses. Additionally, we examined how TEK varied by gender and age. The data analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistics. A total of 550 plant species were validated, with some species appearing in multiple locations under different vernacular names and primary uses. Of these, 52.0% were used for food, 30.2% for medicine, 16.4% for materials, and 1.4% for ritual purposes. We observed variations in TEK across age groups, ecosystems, and use categories, with older individuals demonstrating greater knowledge in all areas. The diversity of used species generally reflects overall plant diversity, highlighting that conserving traditionally valued species can help protect broader biodiversity, especially outside protected areas (OPAN areas). Understanding the importance and scope of TEK at the ecosystem level will enhance community capacity to promote biodiversity conservation beyond protected areas and further benefit from their resources.