A second analysis of cauim made from rice and manioc also showed the presence of yeasts, chiefly Candida tropicalis.
His observation that the methods employed by the Warao for processing palm starch are preadapted for eliminating the poison from bitter manioc offers a reasonable explanation for the origin of this remarkable technology.
The rich volcanic soils produced a wide array of products, including beans, peppers, corn, cocoa, and cassava (manioc).
"It is said that a boy should rub leaves of tapesi'i (Cephalia sp. 1) or leaves of Psychotria colorata (tapi'ika'a), both of which are in the madder family, between his hands so that upon maturity he will be able to fashion well the manioc press (tapesi), an exclusive task of men" (Balée 1994: 107).