Biodiversity and Habitat Assessment of Mount Malindawag, Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

Abstract. Habitat fragmentation results to displacement of inhabiting floral and faunal species. The resulting geographic isolation of various species affect regeneration, genetic flows and recruitment. Hence, a study was conducted in a forested area of Mt. Malindawag in Naawan, Misamis Oriental. Sampling stations were designated at the agro-forest, mid-forest and upper-forest habitat types. Species characterizations were based on DAO 2007-01 and IUCN Red List for conservation status. Results showed highest diversity index of flora at mid-forest while lowest diversity was observed in the agro-forest area. A tree species Canarium racemosum obtained highest Species Importance Value (SIV) at 38.6%, 42% and 30.8%, respectively in the three habitat types. The highest endemicity of flora was at mid-forest with 24% per DAO 2007-01 and 26% per IUCN conservation status. Majority of faunal species were birds that were mostly resident and common and were usually observed at upper-forest habitat. The relatively low diversity and endemicity of flora and fauna species could be due to the influx of human population. Various activities undertaken were threatening the inhabiting biodiversity, and therefore, demand immediate protection and conservation measures from formulating policies to increasing awareness of various stakeholders. Future related studies were recommended to increase scientific understanding on the interrelationships of socio-economic and ecological interactions of biodiversity to the inhabiting human population