Philippine E-Journals

Abundance, Distribution and Microhabitat of Reptilian Species in Terminalia Forest and Sago Palm of Agusan Marsh, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, Mindanao, Philippines

Meconcepcion M. Ngilangil

 

Abstract:

Agusan Marsh is a wildlife sanctuary which harbors unique and pristine aquatic and faunal species. It is considered as one of the most significant and unique wetland ecosystems in the Philippines. The study was the frst systematic investigation of reptilian species in the marsh which assessed species abundance, distribution and microhabitat of reptiles in Sago Palm and Terminalia forest. The methods used were a combination of quadrat method, pit-fall trap and opportunistic approach. The study documented 11 species belonging to 7 families, with a total of 237 individuals in both sampling sites. Hemidactylus frenatus had the highest number of individuals while Naja philippinensis had the lowest number of individuals documented in the area. Five species were recorded as Philippine endemic namely; Hydrosaurus pustulatus, Naja Philippinensis, Draco quadrasi, Tropidophorus davaoensis and Tropidophorus misaminius. Among the fve endemic species, Tropidophorus davaoensis and Tropidophorus misaminius were Mindanao endemic. The association of environmental variables with bushes, coconut trees, leaf litter and tree trunk, selectively logs showed strong correlation with reptilian species such as Eutropis cumingi, Draco quadrasi, and Emoia atrocostata. Despite the exceedingly small land coverage, the Sago swamp and Terminalia forests respectively, are confronted with threats due to unprecedented human activities.