Agrobiodiversity Assessment in Kerala’s Farming Systems: Contribution to Climate Resilient Agriculture

Abstract

Agriculture is both impacted by climate change and a means of mitigation. Agricultural biodiversity enhances soil health, productivity, resilience, and food security, making diversified farming systems important for adapting to climate change and supporting sustainable agriculture. The present study was undertaken to assess plant species diversity within farming systems across selected districts of Kerala, analyse spatial variations in biodiversity, and examine its implications for climate-resilient and carbon-neutral agriculture. A descriptive, cross-sectional research design with a multistage sampling approach was employed. The study was conducted in nine panchayats across three districts, and data were collected from 270 farmers through structured interviews and field observations during 2023–2026. Plant species, including crops, fruit trees, and perennials, were documented at the farm level. Biodiversity was quantified using the Shannon–Wiener Diversity Index (H′) and Simpson’s Diversity Index (SDI), and data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed significant spatial variation in biodiversity among districts. Thiruvananthapuram recorded the highest diversity (H′ = 3.16; SDI = 0.86), followed by Kasaragod (H′ = 1.52; SDI = 0.69), while Ernakulam exhibited the lowest diversity (H′ = 1.13; SDI = 0.52). The overall mean values (H′ = 0.566; SDI = 0.282) indicated generally low to moderate diversity levels across farming systems, with a majority of respondents falling under very low and low diversity categories, reflecting species dominance. Higher biodiversity was associated with homestead and diversified farming systems, whereas plantation-based and commercial systems showed reduced diversity. The study underscores the critical role of agrobiodiversity in enhancing climate resilience and carbon sequestration potential. It emphasizes the need for promoting biodiversity-enhancing practices such as agroforestry and mixed cropping through targeted policy support and strengthened extension interventions to achieve sustainable and carbon-neutral agricultural systems.