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Abstract
The Libungan–Alamada Natural Biotic Area (LANBA) in North Cotabato, Mindanao, Philippines, is a critical yet understudied component of the region’s biodiversity. Within this landscape lies the Libungan River Watershed Forest Reserve (LRWFR), a critical watershed system that supports a diverse array of amphibian and reptile communities. This study assessed the herpetofaunal diversity and community composition within the LANBA– LRWFR using a combination of visual encounter surveys and opportunistic sampling across various habitat types. A total of 16 species were recorded, comprising 11 amphibians and five reptiles, with several being endemic to the Philippines and Mindanao. These findings provide the first baseline inventory of the watershed’s herpetofauna, contributing crucial data for biodiversity documentation and conservation planning in Mindanao. Additionally, the results served as baseline information for the Protected Area Suitability Assessment (PASA) and watershed characterization of the LRWFR. They have also been presented to the watershed management council and relevant local government units to support evidence-based conservation and management in the area.
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References
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