ABUNDANCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF CORTICOLOUS GRAPHIDACEAE MICROLICHENS IN WESTERN PANGASINAN, NORTHERN PHILIPPINES

  • Author
  • Weenalei T. Fajardo
  • Co-authors
  • Paulina A. Bawingan
  • Abstract
  •  

    Graphidaceae lichens abound in the Philippines from the semi-temperate montane forests to tropical lowland areas. This study dwelt on Graphidaceae lichens found in lowland habitats, particularly in western Pangasinan, Philippines. Purposive sampling was conducted in 37 collection sites in 10 municipalities. Our survey resulted to 32 identified species with 14 Graphidaceae species having rare occurrence, three occasional, 14 common and one abundant. The Graphidaceae lichens were found in different types of collection sites: coastal, forest (with open and closed canopy), riparian zones, along parks, and roadsides. CCA ordination analysis revealed the significant relationship established between the microenvironmental factors and spatial distribution of Graphidaceae lichens in Western Pangasinan. Environmental factors such as altitude, light intensity, phorophyte species, relative humidity, temperature, and land use/management significantly affected the spatial distribution of Graphidaceae lichens in Western Pangasinan. LISA analysis revealed that clustered distributional patterns of Graphidaceae with High-High clusters were present in three forests while Low-Low clusters were present only in four out of the 37 collection sites.   Thelotrematoid taxa were found only in understories of forests while most of the Graphidoid taxa were found in more exposed microsites and disturbed areas. Results of the study can be useful information in regards to biodiversity conservation and habitat management in Western Pangasinan, Philippines. Funding: Commission on Higher Education (CHED- K12 Dissertation Grant), Philippines.

     

  • Keywords
  • Modality
  • Pôster
  • Subject Area
  • Ecology
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