2.

1 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

To preserve, manage, develop, and conserve the biological resources of the Panilahan
Watershed, an assessment of the flora and fauna is necessary. The assessment result may
provide valuable insights for informing forthcoming proactive development and management
endeavors. An assessment was conducted on two ecosystems - the upland forest which are
located at Brgy. Liberty, Sherwood, Mahayahay and the mangrove forest in Brgy. Macabug,
Ormoc City, Leyte. For the upland forests, modified belt transect were used, a two- kilometer
baseline transect was established where calibrated ropes were utilized to construct 20m x
20m, 5m x 5m and 1m x 1m quadrats every 250m. while in the mangrove forest, Belt transect
was used as it is the most applicable sampling technique for mangroves with adjusted
intervals of 25 meters to maximize the narrow strips of mangrove along the shoreline.
following the guidelines in Technical Bulletin No. 16-A.
During the assessment, annual and perennial farming, kaingin, presence of the
invasive species, and other observable disturbances were recorded and provided with
additional information on the field data sheet. Local aides helped identify the species
encountered, especially the sound of the birds, while field guides were used to determine the
species in photographs captured throughout the assessment.

2.1.1 VEGETATION

The land cover of Panilahan Watershed consists of eight classes based on the 2020
land cover map. As observed, Perennial crop was the largest part of watershed covering a
total area of 913.91 hectares (24.63%), followed by a vast area of open forest with an area of
907.53 hectares (24.46%), brush/shrubs with 779.73 hectares (21.09%), Close forest with
and area of 632.33 hectares (17.04%), Annual crop covering 193.16 hectares (5.21%), Open
barren with an area of 130.49 hectares (3.52%), Inland water covering 62.67 hectares
(1.69%), Built up with an area of 46.19 hectares (1.24%) and lastly, the smallest part of the
watershed was the Grassland with a total area of 44.23 or 1.21% of the entire Panilahan
watershed.
Figure 33. Vegetation observed during the transect walk at the upland forest, inside
the Panilahan Watershed.

2.1.1.1 FORESTLAND

A. Floristic Composition
Using a modified belt-transect method with a quadrat measurement of 20 meters by
20 meters, the biological resources of the watershed were assessed. All trees measuring ten
(10) cm in diameter at breast height (DBH) were measured using the tree caliper while all
floristic composition within the quadrat was recorded and listed. A total of 120 flora species
identified and recorded which belongs to 62 families and 105 genera. There are 61 (51%) tree
species, 24 (20%) herbaceous, 12 (10%) ferns, 9 (7%) grasses, 10 (8%) shrubs, 2 (2%) of
rattan, and 2 (2%) species of weeds (See figure and Table).
Figure 34. Plant classification in percentage

Ferns 16
Herbaceous 13
Grass 25
Palm 8
Sedges 29
Tree 100

Table 28. Total number of individuals per classification

Principal sources of fuel, construction materials, and furniture are among the
identified plant species. Some of these are important for mitigating climate change (stream
flow regulation, soil erosion control, and air purification). Despite being categorized as non-
timber forest products, the recorded species make substantial contributions to
biodiversification and support the way of life of rural inhabitants. Furthermore, they provide
sustenance, shelter, and vital aromatic and medicinal attributes to many animal species.
Additionally, trees, especially native species, benefit the environment by providing shelter
and protection against soil erosion. In addition, they reduce the concentration of glasshouse
gasses in the atmosphere by storing carbon dioxide. Ancestral species comprise the legume
family, which is highly regarded for its ability to sequester nitrogen. Prominent for their
capacity as forages, the grasses include the Poaceae family.
Table 29 . List of identified common flora species in Panilahan Watershed
Conservation Status
Common Name Scientific Name Family Name Life form
IUCN 2022-2 DAO 2017-11
Mayapis Shorea palosapis Dipterocarpaceae Tree NT OWS
Ulayan Lithocarpus ilanosi Fagaceae Tree NE OWS
Tibig Ficus nota Moraceae Tree NE OWS
Nato Palaquium luzonense Sapotaceae Tree VU OWS
Piling liitan Canarium luzonicum Burseraceae Tree NT OWS
White lauan Shorea contorta Dipterocarpaceae Tree CR VU
Hambabalud Neonauclea formicaria Rubiaceae Tree LC OWS
Talisay gubat Terminalia foetidissima Combretaceae Tree LC OWS
Gapas-gapas Camptostemon philippinense Malvaceae Tree EN OWS
Lanigpa Toona ciliata Meliaceae Tree LC OWS
Sagisi Heterospathe elata Palmae Palm LC OWS
Katmon Dillenia philippinensis Dilleniaceae Tree NT OWS
Malasantol Dysoxylum arborescens Meliaceae Tree LC OWS
Malaikmo Celtis philippinensis Cannabaceae Tree LC OWS
Sagimsim Syzygium brevistylum Myrtaceae Tree DD OWS
Lanete Wrightia arborea Apocynaceae Herbaceous LC OWS
Spike pepper Piper aduncum Piperaceae Shrubs LC OWS
Bikal babui Dinochloa luconiae Poaceae NE OWS
Alagasi Leucosyke capitellata Urticacea Tree LC OWS
Bago Gnetum gnemun Gnetaceae Tree LC OWS
Hindang Myrica javanica Myricacea Tree NE OWS
Hindang laparan Myrica javanica Myricaceae Tree NE OWS
ile Ficus septica Moraceae Shrubs LC OWS
Pugahan Caryota cumingii Palmae/Arecaceae Palm DD OWS
Igyo Dysoxylum gaudichaudianum Meliacaceae Tree LC OWS
Molave Vitex parviflora Verbenaceae Tree VU EN
Anabiong Trema orientales Cannabaceae Tree DD OWS
Langka Artocarpus heterophylus Moraceae Tree LC OWS
Caimito Chrysophylum cainito Sapotaceae Grass DD OWS
Malapapaya Polyscias nodosa Araliaceae Herbaceous DD OWS
Antipolo Artocarpus blancoi Moraceae Tree CR VU
Ipil-ipil Leucaena leucocephala Fabaceae/Mimosoidae Grass LC OWS
Subiang Brideliana insulana Phylantaceae Tree NE OWS
Pakiling Ficus odorata Moraceae Tree NE OWS
Ilang-ilang Cananga odorata Annonaceae Tree NE OWS
Anie Erythrina spp. Euphorbiaceae Tree NE OWS
Malatibig Ficus congesta var. congesta Moraceae Tree NE OWS
Mangga Mangifera indica Anarcadiaceae Tree NE OWS
Butli Ficus gal Moraceae Tree NE OWS
Alim Melanolepis multiglandulosa Euphorbiaceae Tree LC OWS
Amamali Leea aculeate Leeaceae Shrubs NE OWS
Hagimit Ficus minahassae Moraceae Tree LC OWS
Bakan Litsea philippinensis Lauraceae Tree NE OWS
Libas Spondias pinnata Anarcadiaceae Tree NE OWS
Lanzones Lansium domesticum Meliaceae Tree NE OWS
Niog niogan Ficus pseudopalma Moracea Herbaceus PE OWS
Narra Pterocarpus indicus Fabaceae Tree EN OWS
Banitlong Cleistanthus pilosus Euphorbiaceae Tree EN OWS
Sarat Screlia scrobiculata Cyperaceae Grass DD OWS
Banban Donnax cannaeformis Marathaceae Shrubs DD OWS
Kulape Rattan DD OWS
Lokdo-lokdo Nephrolepis hirsutula Dryopteridaceae Fern DD OWS
Wild gabi Colocasia eculenta Araceae Herbaceous DD OWS
Banana Musa sapientum Musaceae Herbaceous DD OWS
Step ladder Costus speciosus Costaceae Herbaceous DD OWS
Spiderwort Commelina diffusa Urticaceae Grass DD OWS
Nito Lygodium circinnatum Rubiaceae Fern LC OWS
Spike moss Selaginella spp. Thelypteridaceae Fern DD OWS
Fern Diplazium esculentum Athyriaceae Tree DD OWS
Duguan Myristica philippinensis Myristicaceae Tree PE OWS
Ituman Garcinia ituman Clusiaceae/Guttiferae Tree DD OWS
Tibig Ficus nota Moraceae Tree LC OWS
Torch-ginger Etlingera elatior Zingiberaceae Herbaceous DD OWS
Tubang-usa Costus speciosus Cannaceae Herbaceous DD OWS
Ulayan Lithocarpus ilanosi Fagaceae Tree DD OWS
Wild ginger Zingiber zerumbet Zingiberaceae Weeds DD OWS
Yellow Adler Turnera ulmifolia Passifloraceae Weeds LC OWS

Note: EX – Extinct; EW - Extinct In The Wild; CR - Critically Endangered; EN – Endangered; VU – Vulnerable; LR/cd - Lower Risk: Conservation Dependent; NT or LR/nt - Near Threatened;
LC or LR/lc - Least Concern;DD - Data Deficient; NA – Not Applicable
B. Conservation Status
The classification of the 120 identified species' conservation status following the DAO
2017-11 "Updated National List of Threatened Philippine Plants and Their Categories" and
the red list 2022-2 of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is presented
in Tables 2 and 3.
Following the IUCN 2022-2, two (2) species categorized as endangered – Vitex
parviflora and Pterocarpus indicus, three (3) vulnerable species -Shorea contorta, Palaqium
luzoniense one (1) near Threatened - Musa textilis, 49 species are least-concerns, and seven
(7) species classified as data deficient, whereas there was one (1) species recorded listed in
DAO 2017-11 as endangered – Vitex parviflora, Pterocarpus indicus and Nephelium
lappaceum categorized as vulnerable species, while Koordersiodendron pinnatum listed as
other threatened species.

Table 30. Conservation Status of the identified species

Conservation Status
IUCN 2022-2 DAO 2017-11
EN EN
VU VU
NT OTS
LC
DD

Various plant species are threatened by human activities such as deforestation and land
conversion. Preserving their habitats, restricting their overexploitation, and educating the
local populace are all vital conservation measures that must be implemented to prevent the
extinction of these species.

C. Stand Structure and Diversity Index

Following the FMB (2019) guidelines, all trees with DBH greater than ten (10) cm were
measured, marked, and identified down to the species level (see figure 4). Measurement was
carried out using a tree caliper and a diameter tape 1.3 meters above the ground. Relative
densities, frequencies, and dominance for each species were then calculated. Numerical
descriptions of abundance and density use a number per unit of area. The abundance of other
species as a function of time and space is relative to relative density. It is simply said that
frequency is the number of times a species occurs. To demonstrate dominance, basal area or,
occasionally, volume was used.
Further, the relative frequency, density, and dominance values are added together to get
the species importance value. The rank linkages between species are established using these
recognized criteria in forest ecology. The formulas used are as follows:

Density = number of individual tree species / area sampled (hectares)

Relative Density = density for a species / total density for all species x 100

Frequency = number of plots in which species occur / total number of plots sampled
Relative Frequencies = frequency value for a species / total frequency for all species x
100
Basal Area = π / 4 (diameter at breast height in cm2)2
Dominance = basal area or volume for a species / area sampled in hectares
Relative Dominance = dominance for a species / total dominance for all species x 100

Species Important Value = summation of Relative Density, Relative Frequencies, and

Relative Dominance

Figure 35. Measuring the Diameter at Breast Height (left) and recording the
identification of the species (right)

There are a total of 189 individual trees measuring above 10 cm Diameter at Breast
Height (DBH) within the established eight (8) plots. By calculating the mean Species
Importance Value (SIV) of each tree in the sampling site within the watershed, the species
that were most prevalent and diverse were identified. Species importance values indicate the
abundance of a species in the watershed. The degree of influence a species has on its
watershed is inversely proportional to its relevance.
31. Species Importance Value (SIV) of tree species (measuring <10 cm DBH)
Species
Relative Relative Relative
Species Importance
Density Frequency Dominance Value
Alagasi 6.76
Alangas 8.11
Alim 5.41
Alingatong 4.05
Amamali 5.41
Anabiong 4.05
Anii 4.05
Anilau 2.70
Antipolo 2.70
Anubing 2.70
Arangen 2.70
Avocado 2.70
Bakan 2.70
Banai-banai 2.70
Binunga 1.35
Bitanghol 1.35
Butli 1.35
Cacao 1.35
Caimito 1.35
Dita 1.35
Duguan 1.35
Gapas-gapas 1.35
Guijo 1.35
Hagimit 1.35
Hambabalud 1.35
Hauili 1.35
Libas 1.35
Malaikmo 1.35
Malapapaya 1.35
Malasantol 1.35
Malatibig 1.35
Mangga 1.35
Mayapis 1.35
Molave 1.35
Narra 1.35
Nato 1.35
Pakiling 1.35 2.12 7.33
Piling liitan 1.35 5.19 11.57
Puso-puso 1.35
Putat 1.35
Sagimsim 1.35
Salngan 1.35
Subiang 1.35
Tabgon 1.35
Talisay gubat
Taluto 1.35
Tisa 1.35
Tibig 1.35
Tindalo 1.35
Ulayan 1.35
White lauan 1.35
Tree fern 1.35
Parasitic maiden 1.35
fern
Scaly swordfern 1.35
Agsam 1.35
Spike-moss 1.35
Nito 1.35
Nitong puti 1.35
Hagnaya 1.35
Pugahan 1.35
Rattan/limuran 1.35
Rattan/Palasan 1.35
Sagisi 1.35
Coconut 1.35
Makahiya 1.35
Wild gabi 1.35
Asyang 1.35
Pandanus 1.35
Wild banana 1.35
Step ladder 1.35
Alikbangon 1.35
Centrosema 1.35
Walis-walisan 1.35
Hagonoy 1.35
Malatabako 1.35
Dilang-aso 1.35
Damong tigas 1.35
Giant bamboo 1.35
Bikal-babui 1.35
Hagikhik 1.35
Agingay 1.35
Mutha 1.35
Sarat 1.35

Each species' Species Importance Value is presented in Table 4. The dominance of

coconut species in the watershed is indicated by the fact that they obtained the maximum SIV
of 46.46. It suggests substantial land conversion occurred within the Panilahan Watershed.
Primarily, the demand for coconut products and other agrocrops motivates this land
conversion. Other species also contribute to the species diversity of the watershed,
notwithstanding the high SIV of coconut species. Hence, when formulating decisions on land
conversion, it is critical to consider the ecological health as a whole. The second largest SIV
with 14.27 is Ulayan, followed by Gmelina with 11.92 SIV, and Narra with SIV of 11.57.

The Shannon Diversity Index of the flora species, a tool to measure the diversity of
species in a community, was computed using the number of individuals of trees (>10cm
DBH). In an animal community, as Fernando et al. (1998) interpreted, values within 2.5 to
2.99 signify moderate diversity with 0 translating sameness in species number (see table
below). The higher the value of H, the higher the diversity of species in a particular
community. The lower the value of H, the lower the diversity. A value of H = 0 indicates a
community that only has one species.

Table 32. Classification scheme for the interpretation of Shannon

Diversity Index by Fernando et al. (1998)

Relative Values Shannon (H’) Index

Very High 3.5 and above
High 3.0-3.49
Moderate 2.5-2.99
Low 2.0-2.49
Very Low 1.9 and below
H’ Formula:

H=[(pi)×ln(pi)] Where:

pi = no. of individuals in species n / total no. of all species

individuals
Using the Shannon Formula for entropy, the obtained H diversity value is compared to
Hmax (or a maximum when all species are equally represented) using the computation below.

Hmax = ln(S)
Where:
S = total number of
species Entropy =
H / Hmax
The result of the H' value for the study area is 3.64, suggesting a considerable degree of
diversity, whereas H'max is 3.82, signifying an abundance of species. It provides evidence of
the presence of numerous tree species within the catchment. A valuable indicator of the
health and biodiversity of a watershed is the diversity index.

The comparison result is 0.95, which indicates the degree of uniformity in the
distribution of the different species. A value in proximity to 1 rather than 0 signifies that the
species distribution in the forest under investigation is nearly homogeneous. Consistently
conducting monitoring of these species and their habitat guarantees that they remain diverse.

2.1.1.2 MANGROVE FOREST

The mangrove assessment in Brgy. Macabug Ormoc City, Leyte, was carried out
utilizing a Belt-transect methodology as it is the most applicable sampling techniques for
mangroves with a quadrat measure of 10 meters by 10 meters and other non-tree flora
(shrubs,vines, herbs, ferns) shall be identified and counted inside the 2m x 2m quadrat. Since
the area has narrow strips of mangroves along the shoreline, intervals between quadrats have
been adjusted to 25 meters and established a total of six (6) quadrats only. Seven (7) species
of Mangrove and mangrove associated plants were identified and recorded in the six (6)
established plots, which belong to six (6) families(refer to Table 33).

Each species was then classified based on the IUCN 2022-2. As seen in the table, 7 of
the 7 species recorded are classified as the least concern listed in the IUCN 2022-2. No
species of the recorded species listed in the DAO 2017-11.
Table 33. List of identified mangrove species including associate species and their conservation status
Conservation
Common Name Scientific Name Family Name Status
IUCN 2022-
2

Pagatpat Sonneratia alba Sonneratiaceae LC

Bani Millettia pinnata Fabaceae LC
Beach morning glory Ipomoea pes-caprae Convolvulaceae LC
Aroma Vachellia farnesiana Fabaceae LC
Talisay Terminalia catappa Combretaceae LC
Bakawan bato Rhizophora stylosa Rhizophoraceae LC
Alagaw dagat premna serratifolia Lamiaceae LC
Miyape avicennia marina Acanthaceae LC
Note: EX – Extinct; EW - Extinct In The Wild; CR - Critically Endangered; EN – Endangered; VU – Vulnerable; LR/cd -
Lower Risk: Conservation Dependent; NT or LR/nt - Near Threatened; LC or LR/lc - Least Concern; DD - Data Deficient;
NA - Not Applicable

Figure 36. Measuring the Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) and Total Hight (TH) of Mellitia
pinnata (left) and recording of the species identified (right).

The species significance value (SIV) was calculated using measurements of 117
individual trees, each measuring ten (10) centimeters in diameter at breast height (DBH).
Within the family Rhizophoraceae, Rhizophora mucronata, and Rhizophora apiculata have
the highest SIVs of 54.25 and 43.19, respectively, making them the most diversified and
dominant species. Following these with SIV values of 36.98, 33.19, and 30.25, respectively,
were Sonneratia alba, Avicennia officinalis, and Avicennia Marina. Since these species can
regenerate itself and is a pioneer, the plant is widely disseminated throughout the study area.
Because it grows quickly and is easily propagated, it is the preferred plantation species.

Table. 34. Species Importance Value (SIV) of tree species (measuring <10 cm DBH)
Species
Relati Relative Relative
Species Importa
ve Frequency Dominance
nce
Densi
Value
ty
Alagaw-dagat 12.30 12.50 8.39 33.19
Bakauan-bato 16.04 14.58 23.62 54.25
Bani 9.09 12.50 8.66 30.25
Miapi 8.02 10.42 7.19 25.63
Pagatpat 10.70 8.33 17.95 36.98
Talisay 9.63 8.33 9.83 27.79
Beach morning glory 8.56 6.25 3.89 18.69

Given that there are just thirteen species in the mangrove area, the abundance of
species achieved a value of 2.30. The Shannon Diversity Index (H'), computed using data
from 171 individuals, indicated a low diversity of mangrove species with a value of 2.23
following the standard. However, the comparison's outcome shows that the thirteen species
are equal—0.97, a value closer to 1 than 0, which denotes an even distribution of tree species
in the ecosystem. It implies that the ecosystem is more stable and resilient to shocks.
All the mangrove species found at the sampling site were thought to be widely spread
throughout all continents and nations, including the Philippines. The mangrove forest
provides a habitat and sanctuary for various species, including fish, birds, animals, insects,
and plants. More significantly, it acts as a natural defense against storm surges and waves,
reducing the negative consequences of flooding on both property and people.
2.1.2 FAUNA

Using an opportunistic sampling technique based on Annex H of Technical Bulletin

16- A and a Modified belt-transect, the fauna assessment was carried out concurrently with
the flora assessment. The exact number of 20 x 20 m quadrat plots, eight upland plots, and
Belt transect with 10 x 10 mangrove plots were placed every 25 meters to maximize the
narrow strips of mangrove along the shoreline. All fauna species through seen and heard were
recorded. Furthermore, in the study area with the help of local assistants, identification of the
fauna's species was accomplished by visual and auditory observation. In contrast, photos of
the species obtained during the assessment were identified using field guide books online data
base.
2.1.2.1 UPLAND FOREST

A. Modified Belt-Transect Method

Through observations and sounds,

over 296 of individuals belonging to 90
different fauna species were recorded.
Based on the table, these species belong to
43 families and 54 genera.
The pie graph (Figure ) shows each
class's species percentages. As can be
observed, classes Insecta was accounted
for the majority of the species ( %,),
followed by aves with ( %), arachnida (%),
Myriapoda (% ), Reptalia (%) and lastly
Gastropod with (%).
Figure 37. Recording the observed fauna
species (top) a picture of Green Citrus Locust
being hand pick for recording purposes(bottom).
Figure 38. Classes of fauna species in percentage

Table 35. List of identified common fauna species found in Panilahan Watershed
Conservation
Status
Classificati Common Name Scientific Family IUCN 2022- DA
on Name Name 2 O
201
9-
09
White-eared brown dove Phapitreron Columbidae LC
leucotis
Orange-bellied Flowerpecker Dicaeum Dicaeidae LC
trigonostigma
Philippine Bulbul Hypsipetes Pycnonotidae LC
philippinus
Philippine hanging
Loriculus Psittacidae LC
parrot philippensis CR
Aves Yellow breasted fruit dove Ptilinopus Columbidae LC -
occipitalis
Philippine coucal Centropus viridis Cuculidae LC
Olive-backed Flowerpecker Prionochilus Dicaeidae LC
olivaceus
Balicassiao Dicrurus Dicruridae LC
balicassius
Rufous-tailed Flycatcher Myiarchus validus Tyrannidae LC
Coppersmith Barbet Psilopogon Megalaimidae LC
haemacephalus
Philippine coucal Centropus viridis Cuculidae LC
Short-tailed Drongo Dicrurus striatus Dicruridae LC
Green Citrus Locust Amata huebneri Acrididae

Insecta Short-winged Rice Grasshopper Appias lyncida Acrididae

andrea

Carinate Locust Armigeres Acrididae

subalbatus

Tiger Beetle Bavulofractum sp. Carabidae

Longhorn Beetle Cassida circumdata Cerambycidae

Green Tortoise Beetle Cletomorpha sp. Chrysomelida

e

Flea Beetle Condylostylus sp. Chrysomelida

e

Black and Scarlet Cicada Dorytomus sp. Cicadidae

Lady Beetle Harmonia sp. Coccinellidae

Leaf-footed Bug Hermetia illucens Coreidae

Flightless Weevil Hippopsis sp. Cuculionidae

White-bellied Mosquito Huechys sanguinea Culicidae

True Weevil Macracanthopsis Curculionidae

sp.

Flightless Weevil Melicodes Curculionidae

tenebrosa
Shavrini Weevil Metapocyrtus Curculionidae
malindangensis

Long Legged Fly Metapocyrtus sp. Dolichopodida

e

Hubner's Wasp Moth Microcerotermes Erebidae

sp.

Yellow-winged Pareuchaetes) Monomorium Erebidae

minimum

Little Black Ant Ochetellus sp. Formicidae

Asian Trap Jaw Ant Odontolabis siva Formicidae

Silver Spiny Ant Odontomachus Formicidae

alius

Small Black Ant Oecanthus sp. Formicidae

Arboreal Ant Onthophagus sp. Formicidae

Formicine Ant Pachyrhynchus Formicidae

shavrini

Drywood Termite Pareuchaetes Gryllidae

pseudoinsulata

Phasmid Stick Insect Podagrica Lonchodidae

fuscicornis

Stag Beetle Polyrachis Lucanidae

aculeata

Treehopper Polyrachis sp. Membracidae

Stilt-legged Fly Polyrhachis Micropezidae

saevissima

Chocolate Albatross Pseudoxya Pieridae

diminuta

Assasin Bug Rainieria sp. Reduviidae

Common Flesh Fly Sarcophaga sp. Sarcophagidae

Dung Beetle Ticentrus Scarabaeidae

pubescens

Blac Soldier Fly Tricondyla Stratiomyidae

conicicollis

Arboreal Termite Trilophidia Termitidae

annulata

Common Green
Omocestus viridulus Acrididae
Grasshopper LC
Coccinella
Lady bug Coccinellidae
septempunctata
Leaf Beetle Monolepta sp. Chrysomelida
e
Leaf Beetle Ouiema sp. Chrysomelida
e
Common grass yellow
butterfly Eurema hecabe Pieridae LC
Meadow brown Maniola jurtina Nymphalidae LC
butterfly
Common evening
brown Melanitis leda Nymphalidae LC
butterfly
Cricket Creatonotos gangis Erebidae
Red-veined darter Sympetrum Libellulidae LC
fonscolombii
Common green darner Anax junius Aeshnidae LC
Melanoplus
Red-legged grasshopper femurrubrum Acrididae LC
Rufous grasshopper Gomphocerippus rufus Acrididae LC
Western honey bee Apis mellifera Apidae LC
Brown Hawker Aeshna grandis Aeshnidae LC
Common green frog Hylarana erythraea Ranidae LC
Reptilia American toad Bufo americanus Bufonidae LC
Emerald Tree Skink Lamprolepis Scincidae LC
smaragdina
Two-striped Telamonia Telamonia dimidiata Salticidae
Arachnida Giant Golden Nephila pilipes Nephilidae LC
Orbweaver
Spiny orb-weaver Gasteracantha kuhli Araneidae
spider
Rusty Millipede Trigoniulus corallinus Trigoniulidae
Diplopoda Flame-leg Millipede Trigoniulus Trigoniulidae
macropygus
Brown Millipede Ophyiulus pilosus Spirobolidae
Chilipoda Tropical Centipede Scolopendra sp. Scolopendrida
e
Actinopteryg Tank goby Glossogobius giuris Gobiidae LC
ii
Note: EX – Extinct; EW - Extinct In The Wild; CR - Critically Endangered; EN – Endangered; VU – Vulnerable; LR/cd -
Lower Risk: Conservation Dependent; NT or LR/nt - Near Threatened; LC or LR/lc - Least Concern; DD - Data Deficient;
NA - Not Applicable

B. Photo Documentation

Mist netting is an exceptionally effective technique for spotting avian and bat species in
flight. Mist nets generally consist of a perimeter of delicate lines designed to capture avian or
bat species in flight. In addition, this enormous barrier comprises infinitesimal compartments
referred to as "shelves," which are vital elements of the net within which the animal would be
trapped. Mist nets measuring 5 meters in height and 20 meters in width were placed where
fruit-bearing trees, including "hagimit," occurred. Observations or "Tibao" were performed
every two hours between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Due to the nocturnal nature of bats, the mist
netting was erected during the night and inspected as early as 5:00 a.m. the following
morning. After removing from the nets, bats and birds were transferred to bird bags. Bats
were fed after their capture before their release into the wild.

Figure 40. Installation of mist nets (left) and releasing the trapped species (right)

Table 36. List of fauna species recorded through Photo Documentation method.
Conservatio No. of
Comm Scientific Fam n Status
Classificatio individu
n on Name ily
IUCN 2022- als
Name Nam
2 trapped
e
Bolbopsittacus
Guaiabero Psittaculidae LC 1
lunulatus
Aves
Collared Todiramphus
King Alcedinidae LC 2
chloris
Fisher
Note: EX – Extinct; EW - Extinct In The Wild; CR - Critically Endangered; EN – Endangered; VU – Vulnerable; LR/cd -
Lower Risk: Conservation Dependent; NT or LR/nt - Near Threatened; LC or LR/lc - Least Concern; DD - Data Deficient;
NA - Not Applicable

Figure 41. Species trapped in mist nets - Todiramphus chloris (left) and Bolbopsittacus lunulatus
(right)
C. Conservation Status and Diversity Index
Following the IUCN Red List 2022-2 and DAO 2019-09 criteria, the conservation
status of each of the 45 fauna species documented through transect walk and mist netting was
determined. DAO 2019-09 classifies as critically endangered only one species identified
through the transect method: the Philippine hanging parrot. However, IUCN 2022-2 classifies
this species as least concerning due to the extensive illicit exploitation that transpired. The
distinctiveness of this species' color has led to its exploitation by numerous illegal hunters,
who have sold or kept them as pets. Efforts should be undertaken to preserve this species,
including increased monitoring and enforcement and stricter hunting and trafficking
regulations. It is also necessary to implement awareness-raising campaigns regarding the
perils associated with the illegal exploitation of this species. Also, there are 33 species listed
in the IUCN 2022-2 as least concerns.

The diversity index was calculated utilizing data regarding the quantification of 379
individuals. The Shannon Diversity Index (H') for the faunal species in the study area is 3.69,
suggesting a flourishing ecosystem and an exceptionally high level of diversity. Conversely,
the species abundance in the watershed is 3.78, indicating the presence of numerous species.
The comparison results of 0.97 indicates that various species are equivalent. The result, closer
to 1 than 0, suggests that the species distribution in the sampled forest is relatively consistent.
Potentially, it could mitigate the risk of further population decline and eventual extinction of
these organisms. Constant monitoring is necessary to guarantee the safety of these species
and their habitats.

2.1.2.2 MANGROVE FOREST

Fauna species in the mangrove forest of the Panilahan

Watershed were assessed through the Belt transects and opportunistic approach. while a
fauna assessment was conducted using the transect method in correspondence with the flora
assessment. During the assessment, high tide hindered the detection of numerous species,
specifically fishes and crustaceans.
Figure 42. Documenting the observed species (left) and recording the species identified
during the transect (right).

A total of 167 individuals, corresponding to 19 distinct species were recorded in the

mangrove forest of Barugwan Watershed through transect while a total of three individual of
two species birds trapped in the mist nets. The six classifications comprising this quantity are
illustrated in Figure 34. 42% of the 18 species documented are the most frequently heard
birds. It was followed by bivalves and insects at the same percentage (17%), bivalves
obtained 11% while crabs at a mere 5%. Large quantities of bivalves and gastropods
observed in the mangrove region are frequently consumed by locals, which explains why
such accumulations of shells are common. Numerous stingless bee hives were also observed
on the trunks of certain mangrove species.

Cra
bs
5%
Gastropods
16%

Birds
42%

Bivalves
11%

Insects
16% Fishes
10%

Figure 43. Species class in percentage

Table 37. List of recorded fauna species through modified transect method
Conservatio
Fam n Status
Classificatio Common Name Scientific Name
n ily IUCN
Na 2022-2
me
Eurasian tree sparrows Passer montanus Passeridae LC
Olive-backed Sunbird Cinnyris jugularis Nectariniidae LC
Golden-bellied Gerygone Gerygone sulphurea Acanthizidae LC
Pacific swallows Hirundo tahitica Hirundinidae LC
Birds Chestnut munia Lonchura atricapilla Estrildidae LC
Collared Kingfisher Todiramphus chloris Alcedinidae LC
Great white egret Ardea alba Ardeidae LC
Philippine coucal Centropus viridis Cuculidae LC
Strongylura
Spottail Needlefish Belonidae LC
Fishes strongylura
Common mudskipper Periophthalmus kalolo Oxudercidae LC
Phintelloides
Jumping Spider Salticidae
versicolor
Insects Stingless Bee Tetragonula biroi Apidae
Oecophylla
Asian Weaver Ant Formicidae
smaragdina
Belitong snail Polymesoda erosa Cyrenidae
Bivalves
Toothless Clam Anodontia edentula Lucinidae
Mangrove periwinkle Littoraria scabra Littorinidae
Gastropods Mangrove periwinkle Littoraria angulifera Littorinidae LC
Toothed Topshell Monodonta australis Trochidae
Crabs Peregrine crab Varuna litterata Varunidae
Note: EX – Extinct; EW - Extinct In The Wild; CR - Critically Endangered; EN – Endangered; VU – Vulnerable; LR/cd -
Lower Risk: Conservation Dependent; NT or LR/nt - Near Threatened; LC or LR/lc - Least Concern; DD - Data Deficient;
NA - Not Applicable

Table 38. List of species with corresponding conservation status

Conservation Status
No. of
Classificatio Common Scientific Name Family Indivi
n Name Name IUCN duals
2022-2 trappe
d
Olive-backed
Cinnyris Nectariniidae LC 2
Sunbird jugularis
Aves
Golden-bellied Gerygone
Acanthizidae LC 1
Gerygone sulphurea
Note: EX – Extinct; EW - Extinct In The Wild; CR - Critically Endangered; EN – Endangered; VU – Vulnerable; LR/cd -
Lower Risk: Conservation Dependent; NT or LR/nt - Near Threatened; LC or LR/lc - Least Concern; DD - Data Deficient;
NA - Not Applicable
According to IUCN 2022-2, information regarding the conservation status of only
eleven of nineteen species is available; these species are classified as least concerns. DAO
2017-11, in contrast, does not contain any species listings.

The diversity index was computed using the same formula; the result for H' is 2.84,
which indicates a moderate diversity of faunal species in the mangrove forest of the
catchment, with birds comprising the majority; the result for species richness (H'max) is 2.89.
Given that the species distribution or entropy value is 0.98, closer to 1 than 0, the species
distribution along the watershed's coastline is nearly equal to or greater than 0

Figure 44. Golden-bellied Gerygone (left) and Olive-backed Sunbird (right) caught during
mist netting.