Agroecological control of the apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) through the implementation of a system of feeders for the caracolero hawk (Rostrhamus sociabilis) with small rice farmers in the Daule canton, Province of Guayas, Ecuador

Abstract

The present research work was carried out in the La Rinconada precinct, Daule canton of the
Province of Guayas, Ecuador. It was developed in two stages: From April 4 to May 2, 2016 and
from September 19 to October 7, 2016, having worked an average of 138 hours for each of the
eight participating students and accumulated a total of approximately 1280 hours. Its general
objective was to develop an agroecological control by implementing feeders for the caracolero
Hawk. Specific objectives were: Use traps to decrease the number of apple snail poses in rice
crops, reduce the incidence of snail damage in young plants and to establish feeder-lookers for
the hawk in the interior and in the perimeter of the crops to facilitate the biological control of the
pest. The methodology that was used to carry out this research was participatory, that is, the
students and the community of rice farmers were trained in the use of agroecological practices
and the benefits it brings to agriculture and the environment in the long run.