The white parts of totora reeds can also be eaten by the people (but can be toxic).

Jose is the president of the island we visited, where about 30 people (10 families) live. He told us about how the islands are made and how the people live. Because of the back-breaking work it takes to build and maintain the islands, the people of the Uros have short life expectancies. Dan bought a hat similar to Jose's which are worn by officials. When he wears his, he likes to be called 'El Presidente'.