Terrestrial Macrophytes Assessment in Camp Higher Ground, Barotac Viejo, Province of Iloilo, Philippines

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to establish baseline data on the terrestrial macrophytes of Camp Higher Ground (CHG), Brgy. San Nicolas, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo: to determine the terrestrial macrophyte level of plant community diversity measured in terms of species richness, species composition, and relative abundance, and to determine the conservation status of plant species in the area as a logical step in protecting the threatened species from possible extinction. The terrestrial macrophytes assessment was done between September 2017 – January 2018 employing the descriptive survey method. Data were collected from the 1000-m² sampling area composed of 10 quadrats each measuring 10 x 10 m². There were 123 plant species recorded that belong to 100 genera and 61 families. Of these were trees, 56.9%; shrubs, 13.8%; vines, 13.0%; herbs, 7.3%; ferns, 5.7%; and palms, 3.3%. Shannon-Weinner Diversity index for CHG was high (H’=3.867). There were 31 (25.2%) macrophytes categorized as threatened of which two were known to be Critically Endangered namely, Agboi (Mussaenda philippica L.C. Rich.) and Bagauak morado (Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Blanco) Merr.). Categorized as Endangered were Duklitan (Planchonella duclitan (Blco.) Bakh. F.), Bahai (Ormosia calavensis Azaola), and Salingogon (Cratoxylum formosum Benth & Hooker). There were 30 (24.3%) plant species considered as endemic. Some forest clearing, wood harvesting, and minor charcoal-making operations were observed during the study duration which posed threats to this natural habitat especially of threatened and endemic macrophytes. Proper conservation program should be implemented by the CHG management to prevent further biodiversity loss.