Butterfly farming for promoting sustainability and ecotourism: a case study of feasibility in Western Ecuador

Abstract

Butterfly-farming projects have been economically successful, increasing livelihood opportunities for local people and promoting women’s empowerment, governance, and conservation behavior. Moreover, local butterfly exhibitions can diversify the attractions of natural reserves and promote ecotourism. Butterfly farming involves rearing butterflies in captivity and marketing them to local or international exhibitions. We researched the feasibility of a butterfly farming project in Western Ecuador during summer 2013 as part of a longer-term applied research program involving capacity-building for local people. A preliminary strategic plan was developed, including a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis and an analysis of market demand for a butterfly exhibition. In addition, biological research was carried out, and local people were trained to address two main weaknesses to implement an exhibition. Results showed that a butterfly farming project is feasible in the area due to the availability of biological information about butterfly species, a market niche for a butterfly exhibition at the reserve, and increased technical capacity and willingness of local stakeholders to participate. This study contributes to understanding how applied biological research can act synergistically to promote sustainability and ecotourism in collaboration with local people.