Abstract / Excerpt:

Mangrove ecosystem provides habitat to diverse fauna and serves as shelter belts to protect various activities in near- shore environments. This study investigated the physicochemical parameters and diversity of mangrove forest in Barangay Bunawan, Davao City. A 60 x 30m sampling area was established. Soil and water pH, salinity, surface temperature, soil nutrient content (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium), and dissolved oxygen were identified per intertidal zones. Basal area, relative density, relative frequency, relative dominance and species diversity were calculated. Results showed that soil pH, salinity and temperature were within the range for the mangrove survival. Soil test result shows very high concentration of K and high concentration of P in all sites; N concentration is the same in high and mid intertidal zones and lower in low intertidal zone. Water pH, salinity and temperature were also within the range for mangrove forest survival. DO slightly vary from 1.4-1.5 mg/L. Rhizopora apiculata, Avicennia marina and Sonneratia casseolaris were the three species indentified. Basal area decreased from high intertidal to low intertidal zone. A. marina had the highest relative density, relative frequency and relative dominance followed by R. apiculata and lastly S. casseolaris. Species diversity of mangroves decreased from high intertidal to low intertidal zone. Correlation analyses of mangrove diversity to its flora, fauna and Physicochemical parameters are recommended for further evaluation of the area.

Info

Source Institution	Ateneo de Davao University
Unit	Natural Science and Mathematics
Authors	Pahayac, Keryl Joyce A.
Page Count	71
Place of Publication	Davao City
Original Publication Date	March 1, 2012
Tags	Biology, Feasibility Studies

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