Diversity of trees and forest structure in Talangisog Forest Park and Viewpoint, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Philippines

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Issue

thnhmjournal vol20 no2

Authors

Francis John G. Felecis

Plant Biology Division, Institute of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Central Mindanao University, Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon, 8710, Philippines

Victor B. Amoroso

Center for Biodiversity Research Extension in Mindanao (CEBREM), and Department of Biology, Central Mindanao University, Musuan, Bukidnon, 8710, Philippines

Noel E. Lagunday

Plant Biology Division, Institute of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Central Mindanao University, Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon, 8710, Philippines / Center for Biodiversity Research Extension in Mindanao (CEBREM)

Maria Melanie P. Medecilo-Guiang

Carrel Debonnaire Naces

Joseph Paquit

Department of Forest Biological Sciences, College of Forestry and Environmental Science, Central Mindanao University, Musuan, Bukidnon, 8710, Philippines

Fulgent P. Coritico

Abstract

Talangisog Forest Park and Viewpoint, located in Eureka, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, is one of the remaining tropical lowland evergreen rainforests in Mindanao; however, its forest composition and structure remain poorly studied. This study aimed to establish baseline data on tree species composition, diversity, description of sampling stations, forest structure, and conservation status. A total of 32 sampling plots, each measuring 20 x 20 meters, were established for tree surveys. Floristic studies from four stations documented a total of 803 individual trees representing 66 species (116 morpho-species), 48 genera, and 36 families. The dominant families were the Dipterocarpaceae (15%), Fagaceae (8%), and Moraceae (6%). Thefour study stations differed in species composition, elevation, and structure in terms of tree height and diameter classes. Three stations exhibited a high diversity value and 1 moderate diversity value, indicating that the area harbors diverse species of trees and a relatively even distribution. Most trees were categorized as lower canopy (1–15 m) and high diameter classes (≥ 40 cm). The highest Importance Value Index was observed at higher elevations and declined toward lower elevations, with Shorea sp. 3 recording the highest IVI at 44.7. The study identified 13 Philippine endemic tree species, 13 classified as threatened, 22 listed as Least Concern (LC), and Shorea malibato Foxw. which is categorized as Critically Endangered by the DENR. Talangisog Forest Park and Viewpoint is home to various lifeforms and native forest cover, and implementing stronger protection and sustainable forest management is recommended.

Attachment

THNHMJ 20(2)-04.pdf

Keywords

References

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