Árvores frutíferas da Amazônia, potencial biotecnológico e de educação ambiental.

Abstract

Given the importance of the Amazon region, this study aimed to contribute to the biotechnological exploration of Amazonian fruit tree seeds and promote integration with environmental education, aiming to raise socio-environmental awareness and develop sustainable practices in the region. The research was conducted at the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Amazonas (IFAM), Manaus Centro Campus (CMC), and applied in public schools within the metropolitan region of Manaus.The study included the establishment and implementation of "Experimental Forest Nurseries" for the collection, extraction, weighing, and processing of fruits and seeds, laboratory analyses to assess the biotechnological potential of the seeds, the creation of a plant germplasm bank, and the assessment of the biotechnological potential of these seeds. The activities carried out encompassed seed preservation, germination, production, planting, and donation of seedlings as part of environmental education initiatives in the participating schools. Additionally, a mobile application was developed to disseminate the potential of Amazonian fruit tree seeds, providing support for environmental education activities and enhancing access to knowledge about native fruit trees of the Amazon region. The main bioproducts of the seeds, including components such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, were analyzed to identify relevant criteria for the app's development. The research involved 134 basic education students and utilized five Amazonian fruit species to investigate their biotechnological potential and incorporate them into environmental education activities. The results indicating the biotechnological potential of two main species, Ingá and Biribá, are presented in this thesis, along with potential applications for use in schools to raise awareness about the value of Amazonian fruit trees. Both species demonstrated biotechnological potential and suitability for environmental education activities carried out in the participating schools.