DIAGNóSTICO PRELIMINAR DE LA PRODUCCIóN Y COMERCIALIZACIóN DEL CHIGüIRO (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) EN LATINOAMéRICA CON éNFASIS EN COLOMBIA

a bibliographic search was carried out in order to establish a diagnostic approach on the production and trade of hydrochoerus hydrochaeris in brazil, argentina, venezuela and colombia. the factors affecting production and trade of the species were determined using an analysis of conglomerate wich identified six groups of production systems. this groups responds to the similarities in several relevant aspects in every region, such as the different systems of breeding, from commercial hunting to breeding in captivity. it also responds to the conditions of technological development and the management of the species. we identified 4 groups related to trade aspects. the associations are related to the similarities among trading products, legal trading and trading channels as well. a survey and workshops were done in colombia with some actors involved in the use of the species. data was analyzed using the matrix of vester in order to identify and give priority to the problems. the main problems identified were the lack of specialized staff, the deficient institutional support and the rigidity of the legislation related to abattoirs and trading of products. finally, lines of action where identified that are needed to develop in order to establish a production system that offers guarantees of use, trade and conservation of the species in our country.