P-490 - Characterization of Agroecological and Traditional Strategies in Coffee Rust Management in the Galápagos Islands

Coffee cultivation in the Galápagos Islands is vital but threatened by coffee rust (Hemileia vastatrix). This study assessed the impact of management strategies and plant biodiversity on rust incidence while improving farmers’ disease control knowledge. A mixed-methods approach, including field surveys, farmer questionnaires, and interviews, was used across 17 farms on Santa Cruz Island. The study examined the influence of pruning, shade regulation, fertilization, weed control, fungicide use, and plant age on rust severity. Plant biodiversity was assessed using systematic quadrants to distinguish endemic, native, and introduced shade trees. Results showed rust incidence varied by location and coffee variety. Resistant varieties (‘Catimor’ and ‘Sarchimor’) exhibited no rust, while susceptible varieties (‘Typica’ and ‘Catuaí’) had 100% incidence. Farmers with higher knowledge had the lowest incidence (20%) with medium-knowledge farmers having the highest (46%), highlighting gaps in disease management and pathogen biology knowledge. Overestimation of expertise and outdated methods may contribute to this trend, emphasizing the need for targeted training. Proximity to abandoned farms increased rust incidence (98%), underscoring unmanaged coffee as an inoculum source. Findings highlight the importance of knowledge-based management and biodiversity conservation. Integrating improved monitoring and agronomic practices can enhance Galápagos coffee sustainability.