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Asian Journal of Biodiversity
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This is an Open Access Journal

Open Access journal
ISSN (Print) 2094-5019 - ISSN (Online) 2244-0461
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EDITORIAL POLICY
- Authors: - -
  PubDate: 2021-09-28
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
GUIDE FOR AUTHORS
- Authors: - -
  PubDate: 2021-09-28
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
The Role of Home Gardens in Conserving Threatened Plants of the
Philippines
- Authors: Adriane Tobias, Alcona Mae Baltazar, Julie Joyce Taguinod, Inocencio E. Buot Jr.
  Abstract: The number of threatened plants in the Philippines continues to rise due to emerging threats such as rapid growth of population, increased rate of land conversion, the introduction of invasive alien species, climate change and, illegal trade of wildlife. Sustainable conservation programs for Philippine plants that will promote the participation of ordinary citizens through the establishment of home gardens and collaboration among researchers and horticulturists are needed more than ever. This paper presents the potential role of home gardens in safeguarding species of conservation concern. Three home gardens on Luzon were surveyed, wherein 75 morpho-species were recorded. Ten were found to be endemic to the Philippines, while 18 were native. Of the 75 morpho-species, 19 were listed as threatened in either IUCN Red List (IUCN 2018-1) or the Philippine Red List (DAO 2017-11). This likely indicates the importance of home gardens in conserving species, especially the threatened ones, through ex-situ. Keywords: community science, conservation, ex-situ, home gardens, threatened plants
  PubDate: 2021-04-25
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
Spawning of Decapterus macrosoma (Bleeker, 1851) “Galunggong” in
Tablas Island, Romblon, Philippines: with Inferences on its Reproductive
Ecology and Management
- Authors: Benjamin J. Gonzales, Herminie P. Palla, Arthur R. Ylagan, Beatriz M. Cabadongga, Zenaida T. Manzano, Merlinda M. Mutia, Godwin O. Marcelino, Teodivico T. Pasion, Arnulfo F. De Luna
  Abstract: Despite its significant contribution as a cheap source of protein and support to a large fishery industry, the biology and ecology of D. macrosoma (Galunggong) remain poorly understood. This study investigates the spawning characteristics vis a vis fisheries management of D. macrosoma in the waters of Romblon Province. The spawning peak in Romblon Pass is during the Hot (May) and Cold (December-January) Seasons, while during Rainy (October) and Hot (May) Seasons in Tablas Strait. The timing of peak spawning of D. macrosoma around Tablas Island varies with that of the South Sibuyan Sea, but generally similar to the breeding traits in Palawan Waters, Manila Bay, and other shortfin scads’ populations in Asian Waters. Initial findings argue that the variations in spawning characteristics of populations in this study are influenced by the rate of exploitation. Areas in Romblon Pass, Southwest Philippine Sea, and North Sulu Sea – show no sign of heavy exploitation. The common peak spawning months in MIMAROPA Waters are May and December, while May, October, and December in Romblon Waters. This can be used as the basis for management decisions to regulate the fishing efforts of D. macrosoma in the Fisheries Management Area no. 5. Keywords: Spatial distribution, reproductive strategies, fisheries management areas
  PubDate: 2021-01-25
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
Local Perception, Values, and Conservation Attitude towards Brahminy Kites
(Haliastur indus Boddaert, 1783) in Tugbok District, Davao City,
Philippines
- Authors: Jhonnel P. Villegas, Aiza P. Clarido, Virmalyn D. Enobio, Jihada D. Lumpapac, Jayson C. Ibañez
  Abstract: Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus Boddaert, 1783), locally known as Banog, is a diurnal raptor extant in the Philippines. This species is an essential bioindicator of ecological health. However, due to habitat fragmentation and loss, there is a rapid population decline in the Philippines. Interestingly, H. indus has been observed in a suburban town in Los Amigos, Tugbok District, Davao City, perching on trees alongside the Davao to Bukidnon national road. This study aims to determine the influence of human perception and values towards the conservation of H. indus through multiple linear regression. Seventy (70) households were interviewed on their perception, values, and conservation attitude. It was found that H. indus is considered a pest to aquaculture because it feeds on the fingerlings of Hito (Siluriformes sp.) and Tilapia (Oreochromis sp.). However, locals still support conservation due to existing laws. This result highlights the importance of laws in deterring criminal offenses against wildlife. There is a need to strengthen law enforcement and develop a conservation education program to foster positive perception, values, and conservation attitude. These are efficient and sustainable approaches to accomplish conservation goals. Keywords: Haliastur indus, ecological knowledge, perception, values, conservation attitude, Philippines
  PubDate: 2021-01-25
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
Tree Diversity and Timber Resources Assessment in Secondary Forests of
Quirino Forest Landscape Project, Philippines
- Authors: Elizabeth T. Carig, Ryan P. Manuel
  Abstract: This is a part of baseline data gathering for a short-term project in 12 barangays referred as Quirino Forest Landscape (QFL). The study assessed trees’ diversity, biophysical attributes, utilization values and ecological importance. Quadrat sampling was performed to gather abundance and biometric data of trees with diameter at breast height of 15cm and greater. Data analysis employed alpha diversity indices, distance and similarity measures, carbon-based allometric equations, stand-stock table and other tools. Secondary information and first-hand accounts were used to gather ecological and utilization values. Diversity was very high, highly heterogeneous, and very complex. Diffun was found to have the most contiguous tree assemblage; Cabarroguis and Aglipay share more species than with Maddela and Diffun. Analysis of photographed canopies revealed mean canopy closure is 77.41%. Close to half of individual trees fall under 40cm and 50cm dbh classes, implying QFL is secondary forest. Trees have aboveground stored Carbon of 642.87tons/ha or 1.26tons/tree. The area host five premium timbers, 10 Philippine Mahogany timbers, Rosewoods, 15 Furniture/Construction, and 95 underutilized species. Slightly more than a third (33.60%) of sampled canopy trees (43 species total) require conservation effort, White Lauan (Shorea contorta) is the most critical. To control further damage, measures to prevent further forest cover loss must be instituted to understand and sustain ecosystem functions. Keywords: Secondary Forest, biodiversity, importance value, carbon storage, cabarroguis, Quirino Forest Landscape
  PubDate: 2021-01-25
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
Anthropogenic Pressure- A Potential threat to Biodiversity. An Evidence
from Macroinvertebrate Community of Dal Lake, Kashmir, India
- Authors: Mohd Yaseen Gudoo, Mohammad Farooq Mir, Anuja Gupta
  Abstract: A survey was conducted to assess the macroinvertebrate community and water quality of the Dal Lake of Kashmir in relation to anthropogenic pressure on the lake. Macroinvertebrates were collected by D-frame net and Ekman’s dredge. Physico-chemical analysis of water was performed by following methods of American public health association. During the survey 28 macroinvertebrate taxa were recorded representing phylum Annelida (8 taxa), Arthropoda (13 taxa), and Mollusca (7 taxa). Mean population density of macroinvertebrates was estimated 6376 ind./m2. The annelids were found dominant (2524 ind./m2) followed by arthropods (2411 ind./m2) and molluscs (1441 ind./m2). Mean value of Biological indices was computed 2.41 (Shannon’s index), 0.89 (Simpson’s index), 1.55 (Margalef’s index), and 0.17 (Pielou evenness index). Water quality assessment revealed eutrophic, alkaline, highly productive, hard water type, and organically polluted nature of lake waters. Water quality, sewage influx, organic wastes, agricultural wastes, and macrophytes were observed as the influential factors in determining the patterns in diversity, distribution, and composition of macroinvertebrate community in the lake. Anthropogenic pressure at lake catchments was observed as a major force behind the current ecological conditions of lake. The study concludes that the lake is under anthropogenic and pollution stress and urges for immediate restoration measures. Keywords: Macroinvertebrates, diversity, water quality, urbanization, pollution
  PubDate: 2021-01-25
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
Structure of Odonate Assemblage in K’laja Karst Ecotourism Park, General
Santos City, Philippines
- Authors: Gaylord L. Dela Cruz, Paolo M. Tagaloguin, Maria Luisa N. Cabrera, Ronaldo T. Bigsang
  Abstract: Odonates are sensitive to disturbances and changes in habitat quality and integrity. However, our understanding of odonates as environmental bioindicators remains limited. This concern arises primarily from the significant data gaps in the local and global structure and distribution pattern of odonate fauna, especially in terrestrial landscapes. In this study, we determined the assemblage and diversity attributes of odonate species in K’laja Karst Ecotourism Park, one of the few remaining natural reserves in General Santos City, Southern Mindanao. Our data showed a rich and highly diverse odonate fauna with 22 species belonging to 19 genera within nine families. More than 45% of the documented odonate species were endemic to the Philippines, 89% of which were Zygopterans (damselflies). Anisopterans (dragonflies) were more abundant and species-rich, comprising 56% and 59% of the total collection, respectively, with the libellulids dominating in both respects. Several Anisopteran species thrived abundantly in open, cultivated fields, while most Zygopteran species recorded higher numbers and diversity indices in shaded habitats adjacent to the river. Our findings reveal that while odonate composition and diversity remain robust, the relative distribution and proportion of Zygopteran and Anisopteran species indicate habitat alteration and degradation. Together, these data provide a basis for identifying priority areas for protection and conservation in the karst landscape. Keywords: biodiversity, K’laja Karst, odonate assemblage, Zygoptera-Anisoptera ratio
  PubDate: 2021-01-25
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
Status of Selected Coral Reef Ecosystem in Zambales, Philippines
- Authors: Annie Melinda Paz-Alberto, Joshua A. Capones, Daryl A. Juganas
  Abstract: Biodiversity loss is one of the current issues we are facing today. From the past years, biodiversity loss still continues particularly in various ecosystems. Coral reef ecosystem is one of the ecosystems near coastal areas where the biodiversity is degrading due to anthropogenic activities and natural causes. Coastal community`s food and livelihood relies heavily on coral reef ecosystems. Illegal fishing and overfishing are the main activities that contribute to the degradation of coral reef ecosystem. As a result, the natural habitat of marine animals commonly found in coral reef ecosystems and mangrove ecosystems are affected that leads to its degradation. An assessment was conducted in order to determine the current status of coral reef ecosystems in the selected coastal municipalities in Zambales. The methods used to assess the coral reef ecosystems are photo transect method, manta tow and snorkeling method to measure and determine the present coral cover of the study areas. Results of the study revealed that only the coral reef ecosystem in Sta. Cruz have good condition status. However, the coral reef ecosystems of Candelaria, Masinloc and Palauig have only fair coral reef conditions. The total average percentage cover of dead corals is higher than the percentage of live hard coral cover. Thus, results indicate that the coral reef ecosystems which serve as habitats of marine organisms are already degraded due to human activities, climate change, natural forces such as strong waves and predators. Keywords: Biodiversity, Coral Reef Ecosystem, Degradation, Status, Human Activities.
  PubDate: 2021-01-25
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)
First Record of the Convict Cichlid Amatitlania nigrofasciata (Günther,
1867) on Mindanao Island, Philippines with remarks on some endemic and
introduced fishes in Sawaga River, Bukidnon
- Authors: Lesley C. Lubos, Abner A. Bucol
  Abstract: The Convict Cichlid Amatitlania nigrofasciata (Günther, 1867) is an introduced freshwater fish. We provide the first record of this species from Mindanao based on samples collected from the Sawaga River, Bukidnon, Mindanao Island. We also provided an account of some fishes, including one endemic fish, the Half-beak (Nomorhamphus philippinus), and other introduced species recently sampled in the Sawaga River. We highlight the need to document the spread of introduced species in the river systems of Mindanao.Keywords: Amatitlania nigrofasciata, Sawaga River, freshwater fish
  PubDate: 2021-01-25
  Issue No: Vol. 12 (2021)