Wild vegetable resources and market survey in Xishuangbanna, Southwest China

The article presents results of a field and market survey on characteristics and use of wild vegetable consumption for local ethnic groups in Xishuangbanna, SW China. A total of 284 wild vascular plant species and varieties were identified as wild vegetables consumed by three distinct native ethnic groups. These wild vegetables account for 6.1% of total vascular plant species in this area. Wild vegetables play an important role in the ethnic groups’ diet and source of cash income. Based on a 10-month market survey, wild vegetables accounted for 20.6% (in weight) of total vegetable sales. The structure of income from total vegetable sales varied among ethnic groups, with high sales for those living close to dense forests. The use of wild-vegetable resources can increase income of local ethnic groups, thus contributing to the conservation of forest resources in the region.