Pteridophytes and Lycophytes Assessment in the University of Mindanao, Matina Campus, Davao City Philippines

Normeliza E. Morales

Math and Science Department, College of Arts and Sciences Education, University of Mindanao, Matina Campus, Davao City, Philippines

Email: normelizamorales@yahoo.com 

Abstract

This paper presented the biodiversity assessment of Pteridophytes and Lycophytes in the University of Mindanao, Matina Campus, geographically located in a highly urbanized area between 706’72.22’ N and 125059’5’E from Sept 2016 to June 2017. Opportunistic sampling or visual encounter method and transect walk at two different sites within the campus were conducted. All plant species were initially identified by comparing its morphological characteristics to taxonomic keys and existing herbarium specimen which was confirmed by the experts. A total of twenty-eight (28) species belonging to nine (9) families with fifteen (15) genera of Pteridophytes and lycophytes were recorded. There were 23 (82.1%) ferns and 5 (17.9%) lycophytes. Most of the ferns found in the campus were categorized as least concern and widely distributed in tropical areas. Seven or 25% species of pteridophytes and lycophytes were vulnerable which implicated that the school has catered population of fern species that had declined more than 30-50% in the last ten years. The result of the study served as the baseline data of pteridophytes and lycophytes species in UM Matina Campus. It was recommended to preserve a portion of the school mini forest that hosted the vulnerable species. In addition, it was suggested to propagate and cultivate the vulnerable species identified to help increase their population size. Furthermore, it was also recommended to include biodiversity conservation program to its institutional planning and development as part of the UM development agenda. 

Keywords

Davao Biodiversity, Inventory, Plants, University of Mindanao, Conservation, Pteridophytes, Lycophytes, Philippines.

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