The Kuna Indians inhabit this archipelago of islands. Within sight of the Panamanian coast, these islands are separated by reefs and deep water, and are themselves packed thick with coconut palm trees. Helping ones self to the coconuts however, is not permitted here. These trees aren't simply planted here for ornamental sake (as in much of Florida and the Bahamas); these trees are natural and serve as one of the forms of local agriculture.
Aside from fishing, coconut export is one of the sources of livelihood for the Kuna. They collect the coconuts as they fall to the ground and once a month, boats from Colombia swing through and buy the nuts.
The Kuna sell the coconuts for 25 cents each, or trade them for necessities (rice, fuel, etc). Even while maintaining a very traditional lifestyle, the Kuna are keyed into the global economy.
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