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At Etnia Nativa, we’re committed to share authentic native perspectives, educating the public, and inspiring a deep connection to our environment through what we call the “island caretaker” mindset.
In our 103rd edition, The Cucuy: A Vanishing Tradition, we spotlighted cucuy—as a traditional native spirit drink crafted from a specific species of agave, known by our native as “cucu”. Once a staple at island gatherings, cucuy production has dramatically declined due to the agave plant’s rare and biologically complex reproductive cycle. This limitation makes large-scale cultivation nearly impossible and places the tradition at risk of disappearing, along with its cultural and economic significance.
This new episode expands the lens, exploring the agave’s rich legacy and its growing relevance in a rapidly changing world. Often referred to as “the DNA of the desert,” agave is more than a plant—it’s a symbol of resilience and innovation. With roots deep in traditional cultures and branches reaching into genomic research and climate-smart agriculture, agave is increasingly recognized as a model species for ecological adaptation.
Long before colonization, the Caquetios “our Aruban ancestors” and other Indigenous peoples of present-day Venezuela cultivated sophisticated agave-based ecosystems. For them, agave was more than sustenance—it was central to identity, economy, and survival. This knowledge spread across the Caribbean, creating an interconnected network of agricultural wisdom.
Agave offers remarkable versatility. It yields:
- Natural sugars for food and spirits
- Cleansing agents for hygiene
- Durable fibers used in traditional crafts for the elaboration of fabrics, ropes, hammocks and espadrilles or “pargati”
- Pickled shoots and flowers for nourishment
- Construction materials—such as fiber binders for adobe and thatched roofing
- Roasted leaves as food
These uses highlight agave’s crucial role in sustainable living, especially in arid environments where it thrives under extreme drought, heat, and UV radiation. Its low water demands and high biomass potential make it ideal for sustainable agriculture in dry climates.
Today, agave is being reimagined for modern applications:
- Biofuels – leveraging its high sugar content and drought resistance
- Medicine – with compounds offering promising therapeutic properties
- Sustainable materials – utilizing its strong, renewable fibers
Thanks to breakthroughs in gene editing and genomic mapping, agave’s potential is expanding further—yet this promise comes with real risks.
Agave biodiversity is under threat. Mexico`s industrial tequila and “pulque” production relies heavily on clonal propagation, which reduces genetic diversity and leaves plants vulnerable to pests and climate stress. Meanwhile, wild agave populations are declining due to overharvesting, habitat loss, and encroachment.
To protect agave’s future, we must:
- Champion traditional farming methods like those still used in cucuy production on the mainland
- Preserve wild agave varieties and their genetic diversity
- Bridge Indigenous knowledge with modern science
Agave is more than a crop—it’s a living link between past and future, culture and technology. As both a sacred and practical plant, it embodies the harmony between humans and the environment. Its story reminds us that sustainability isn’t just about innovation—it’s about remembering, respecting, and restoring ancient ways of living with the land.
Let agave’s enduring spirit guide us toward a more resilient and regenerative future.
At Etnia Nativa, we invite you to deepen your connection to all these ancestral narratives and discover the true cultural fabric of Aruba. As the Caribbean’s only “living museum,” we proudly represent the island’s rich mestizaje—its dynamic cultural blend.
Pioneering since 1994, we’ve been advocating for cultural preservation, co-founders of Aruba’s National Park, the Archaeological Museum, and several artisan and community-led initiatives.
Connect through a one-of-a-kind experience with the spirit and soul of Aruba’s ancient heritage. Book your Etnia Nativa Experience today! Whats App +297 592 2702 etnianativa03@gmail.com
