In order to guide the selection of propagation material adapted to a particular area, maps with ecogeographical zones were developed. The map with ecogeographical zones were developed only for Peru and Ecuador and not for the four Central American countries (Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala), as a different methodology is used for the selection of the list of gene banks, clonal gardens and nurseries in these four countries.
Ecogeographical zones are regions characterized by similar climatic and environmental variables within the suitable area for cacao and define areas within which propagation material can be moved and used with a minimal risk of maladaptation and disruption of genetic patterns. The ecogeographical zones illustrated in the map are the result of a cluster analysis based on soil and climate variables. In order to predict possible changes in the distribution of ecogeographical zones under different scenarios of climate change, the current map has been projected to different climate change scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) over different time horizons (2030, 2050 and 2070). If the most suitable ecogeographical zone for a restoration site is expected to change in the future, it is recommended to source propagation material from areas within the current ecogeographical zone as well as from ecogeographical zone predicted under future conditions.