Caryocar Brasiliensis
The fruit of the piquí tree, Caryocar brasiliensis, is also important in the intervillage Kuarup. This fruit ripens in November and December, and is harvested in great numbers at that time. In anticipation of holding a Kuarup the following year, the villagers boil large quantities of piquí right after gathering the fruit, and store the boiled pulp in leaf-lined baskets at the bottom of the lake. Here it will keep without rotting until needed for the Kuarup ceremony 8 months hence. Piquí seeds, which make a very tasty morsel and play a ritual part in the Kuarup ceremony, are also carefully stored away in special small baskets for the following year.
© Kieron Nelson 2015 "Vanishing Cultures Photography" All rights reserved
