Questions and Answers
What is ethnobiology?
The scientific study of dynamic relationships among peoples, biota, and environments; focusing on how plants and animals are treated or used by different human cultures.
What are the research objectives of ethnobiology? (Select all that apply)
What is pharmacognosy?
The study of medicine derived from natural sources.
What are the origins of the word pharmacognosy?
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The American Society of Pharmacognosy was founded in 1975.
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How did ancient civilizations contribute to pharmacognosy?
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Christopher McCandless was known for living a conventional life before abandoning it to explore America.
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What significant milestone did Christopher McCandless reach during his journey?
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Study Notes
Ethnobiology
- Scientific study of relationships among people, biota, and environments.
- Focuses on treatment and use of plants and animals across cultures.
- Examines traditional knowledge systems, particularly for medicinal purposes.
- Areas of study include plants as medicines, alternative healing methods, wild foods, and agricultural crops.
Research Objectives of Ethnobiology
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Catalog and Document Traditional Knowledge:
- Systematic cataloging of diverse plant and animal uses including preparations and cultural significance.
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Sustainable Management:
- Development of strategies for the sustainable management of important plant and animal populations.
- Evaluates traditional and modern practices for biodiversity conservation.
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Domestication and Agriculture:
- Investigation of species domestication processes.
- Study of agricultural practices' impact on ecosystems and human societies.
Pharmacognosy
- Study of medicinal drugs from natural sources.
- Derived from Greek: "Pharmakon" (drug) and "Gnosis" (knowledge).
- Concerned with medicinal drugs obtained from plants or natural origins.
American Society of Pharmacognosy
- Founded in 1959 to promote pharmacognosy through research presentations and publications.
- Defines pharmacognosy as the knowledge branch focused on natural medicinal drugs.
Historical Context
- Developed from ancient civilizations utilizing local flora and fauna for survival.
- Primitive man learned through trial and error which plants and animals were safe or dangerous.
Case Study: Christopher McCandless
- Renounced conventional life, donated savings, and foraged in the Alaskan wilderness.
- Weighed 140 lbs before entering wilderness; found 67 lbs with no subcutaneous fat after 114 days.
- Highlights the importance of knowledge in foraging and survival in wild environments.
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Description
This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of Ethnobiology and Pharmacognosy as explored in Bio 134. It delves into the relationships between people, plants, and animals, focusing on traditional uses and practices related to natural resources and medicine. Test your knowledge on ethnobotanical practices and their cultural significance.
