Ecosystem services and biodiversity conservation at the El Pedregal University Farm, Cienfuegos municipality.

Abstract

This paper describes the actions carried out between July 2021 and December 2024 to conserve plant biodiversity at the El Pedregal University Farm, a Botanical Garden of Fruit Trees in Cienfuegos. This effort responds to the need to create spaces dedicated to teaching, research, and conservation of tropical and subtropical fruit species and medicinal plants, benefiting students of Agronomy and Biology, as well as farmers and managers in training in fruit growing. Methods such as agroecosystem characterization, calculation of biodiversity and carbon sequestration indicators, and monitoring of soil properties were employed. The results demonstrate the implementation of agroecological practices that improved soil conditions, increased biodiversity, and generated positive economic impacts, in addition to contributing to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration. Additionally, an educational space was established for children from a nearby primary school, promoting knowledge about fruit trees and medicinal plants. The work carried out is aligned with the Life Task and Goals 13 and 15 of the 2030 Agenda, consolidating El Pedregal as a key reference for biodiversity conservation and adaptation to climate change in Cienfuegos.