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Factors influencing the perception of ecosystem services in Ecuadorian tropical dry forests

Abstract:

The importance of the ecosystem services provided by dry tropical forest is better understood when analyzing peoples' perceptions of such services. Particularly south ecuadorian dry forests have been scarcely studied from social sciences, though they are the most populated and threathened forests in the world. Therefore, little is known about factors that may influence the perception of ecosystem services provided by such forests. Based on a study case research in the Reserva Ecológica Arenillas and by using a qualitative and quantitative approach, we discuss how the history of the Reserve and factors such as participants' residence, frequency of visits, gender and age play a key role in the social perception and value given to the ecosystem services provided by the protected area.