Moss and lichen diversity in Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park, Bukidnon, Philippines

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the mosses and lichens in terms of species richness and composition; document their distribution across different habitats; assess the conservation status; and identify several conservation strategies affecting the floral species and recognize its ecological importance in the ecosystem. Samples were collected through transect walk along the established 2-hectare biodiversity monitoring plot. Each species was classified, identified and described according to its diagnostic characters using field lens and microscopy examinations. Findings of the study revealed an overall total of 136 nonvascular species of these, 65 mosses, belonging to 35 genera and 19 families. The lichens had 71 species belonging to 18 genera and 11 families. Taxonomic characters based on habitats, leaf arrangement and orientation, stem structure, and sporophyte characters for the mosses and the growth form for the lichens were used to identify into families, genera and species. The species are confined on tree trunks, decayed logs, twigs and litters and on moist rocks. Moss and lichen cover ranges 30-85% within study sites. The trend of moisture level at the montane forest reflects the highest species population. Likewise, different microclimate regimes and substrates strongly influenced its cover and species composition. Local assessment for the species was observed as endemic, threatened, endangered and possibly new. Three moss species were found endemic, 1 endangered and 1 species as possibly new. The overall floristic assessment should be carried out to establish a foundation for their protection and ecological impact to the environment.