Resumo

GUEVARA-HERNANDEZ, Francisco et al. Energy and economic efficiency of maize in the buffer zone of the Biosphere Reserve "La Sepultura", Chiapas, Mexico. Rev. Mex. Cienc. Agríc [online]. 2015, vol.6, n.8, pp.1929-1941. ISSN 2007-0934.

Energy balance, production capacity of protein-energy and, economic feasibility of three maize production systems were studied: poly-culture maize intercropped with beans (SPM-1), production of landrace maize (SPM-2) and, production of improved maize (SPM-3), located in the ejido California within the Biosphere Reserve "La Sepultura" in the State of Chiapas, Mexico. Derived from a detailed description of production systems, analysis of energy inputs to the system, physical flows and inputs used to produce material (Meul et al., 2007) and analysis of energy efficiency (Funes, 2009) it was found that the production system of landrace maize intercropped with beans showed the highest energy efficiency with 1. 12 Mcal produced, compared to the systems of landrace maize in monoculture and improved maize, which had efficiency ratings of 1.07 and 0.99, respectively. Similarly, the SPM-1 showed the highest energy and protein, capable of meeting the requirements of9 and 23 individuals ha-1 year1, respectively potential. The biggest benefit/cost corresponded to the production system with improved varieties SPM-3. Among the energy and economic factors that increase the cost of production is high dependence on chemical inputs and the use of hired labour.

Palavras-chave : Zea mays; food; energy balance; production systems.