Agronomic and economic characterization in agroforestry systems with cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) in the Utcubamba Valley, Peru

Cocoa-based agroforestry systems (AFS) are a key strategy for strengthening agronomic and economic sustainability in tropical regions; therefore, comprehensive knowledge of their structure and performance is essential. This study characterized 12 cocoa-based agroforestry plots in the Utcubamba province, Amazonas (Peru), through an integrated field assessment that included tree inventory and structural measurements, soil laboratory analysis, pest and disease surveys, and economic evaluation. Tree diversity and structure revealed functionally differentiated communities, reflected in Shannon index values of H′ = 2.24, canopy cover exceeding 60%, and importance value indices (IVI) highlighting dominant species such as Calycophyllum spruceanum (16.79%) and Laurus nobilis (15.64%), which contribute to microclimatic regulation and system resilience. Soil analyses showed strong correlations among soil organic carbon (SOC), soil organic matter (SOM), and total nitrogen (N) (r > 0.95), emphasizing the role of organic matter management in improving soil quality and crop productivity, with SOC ranging from 1.91% to 3.89%, SOM from 3.30% to 6.71%, and total N from 1.65% to 3.35%. Pest incidence exhibited low or insignificant correlations with soil parameters (r ≤ 0.32) and generally moderate levels, suggesting a stronger influence of management practices and shade structure. Economically, the systems showed an average annual net benefit of USD 2,616.91 per hectare per year and a benefit–cost ratio of 2.30, indicating positive economic performance. Overall, cocoa-based AFS function as productive systems capable of maintaining agronomic performance while generating economic profitability under the evaluated conditions.