Traditional On-Farm Agrobiodiversity in Transition: Diversity, Genetic Erosion, and Conservation in North-Western Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The hilly agroecosystems of north-western Maharashtra harbor rich agrobiodiversity, but agricultural intensification and widespread adoption of improved cultivars are accelerating the erosion of traditional crop landraces. However, comprehensive information on the current status of on-farm agrobiodiversity and the extent of ongoing genetic erosion in these tribal-dominated landscapes remains limited. This study assessed on-farm agri-horticultural diversity, landrace prevalence, genetic erosion, and indigenous conservation practices across Akole, Igatpuri, Shahada, and Dhadgaon. Field surveys, household interviews, and focus group discussions documented traditional crop landraces, wild edible species, and farmer-led conservation practices. Agrobiodiversity was evaluated using the Prevalence Index, Berger–Parker Index, Menhinick’s Diversity Index, and Shannon Diversity Index. More than 150 traditional landraces representing cereals, millets, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits, and legumes, together with over 35 wild edible plant species, were recorded. Hyacinth bean (PI = 10.00), mango (PI = 5.35), groundnut (PI = 5.25) and wheat (PI = 4.17) showed the highest prevalence in Akole–Igatpuri, whereas cowpea (PI = 2.50) and pigeonpea (PI = 2.33) predominated in Shahada–Dhadgaon. Shannon diversity values ranged from 0.69 to 3.01 and 1.01 to 2.17, indicating substantial variation in landrace diversity. Community seed banks and farmer-managed seed systems continue to support the conservation of locally adapted landraces despite ongoing varietal replacement. This study provides a comprehensive baseline for understanding the status of on-farm agrobiodiversity in north-western Maharashtra. It highlights the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge with community-based and policy-driven conservation strategies to strengthen the long-term resilience and sustainability of traditional farming systems.