Scientific name: Derris / Duguelia / Lonchocarpus chrysophyllus or other related species
Vern: haiari (En)
Local: neku, ndeku (Sr)
Indig: ineku (Tr); haiari (Lok); kumata (Ka)
Growth Form: Climbers
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Notes: Many Indigenous cultures utilize woody lianas within the genus Lonchocarpus for fishing. By crushing the roots or stems of these vines directly into slow-moving streams or dammed pools, fishers release these compounds into the water, where they temporarily inhibit a fish’s ability to absorb dissolved oxygen. The affected fish quickly float to the surface for efficient harvesting. Because the active ingredients break down rapidly in water, dilute quickly downstream, and do not make the catch toxic to humans, these plants serve as a vital, localized tool for community food procurement and resource management. The long-term impact upon fish populations is minimized because these ritual, cultural fishing practices typically occur only a few times a year – when water levels are low.