Code

Variable

Statement or variable description

1

Fertility

Shift from the production of annual crops to avocado (a perennial crop) has helped to control soil erosion and has improved soil structure and fertility, increased ecosystem nutrient retention, carbon sequestration, and water infiltration, and it has therefore helped to conserve soil organisms or biodiversity

2

Water

Avocado, like many other perennials, plays an important ecosystem function of enhancing soil water retention as well as moisture infiltration and storage, creating a favourable microclimate buffer zone for soil organisms

3

Flora

By enhancing soil fertility, water retention, and infiltration avocado trees improve ecosystem health and support a number of understory vegetation and soil flora

4

Fauna

Avocado trees support many fauna species that live in soils, on trees, and in the understory vegetation including insects, bees, beetles, butterflies, birds, lizards, tree frogs, and others

5

Education and public awareness on biodiversity

The “Communication, Education and Public Awareness” (CEPA) programmes introduced by avocado exporting companies operating in the study areas have helped to create awareness of biodiversity

6

Habitat protection

Avocado trees have increased habitat niches for biodiversity

7

Environment

By reducing soil erosion and enhancing soil organic matter and carbon sequestration, avocado trees have helped to conserve the environment and decrease environmental pollution