A Biocultural and Artistic Sketch of the Chinese Black Cardamom, Cao-guo (Lanxangia tsao-ko)
摘要
In this chapter, we select Cao-guo (草果), or Chinese black cardamom (Lanxangia tsao-ko) as a focal species for the purposes of biocultural conservation, restorationRestoration and communication. We employ the methodology of field environmental philosophy (FEP) and adopt the theoretical framework of biocultural ethics, especially the 3Hs, habits, habitats, and co-inhabitants, to explore the biological, ecological, cultural, aestheticAesthetics, and socio-economic values of Cao-guo. Despite its significance, the species has received limited attention in biocultural studies. Through an integration of a species-centered approach and FEP, one of the authors, Zhang conducted field investigation in Tengchong, Yunnan province, Southwest China. Based on the field trip, Zhang also created watercolor paintings for further biocultural communication. In this study, combining field research and artistic creation, we aim to illustrate the biocultural importance of Cao-guo, foster greater awareness of the responsibility of co-inhabitation in various local places on the planet, and examine the medium of watercolor paintings for biocultural communication.