Bryophytes Flora in Forest Patch of President Roxas, Cotabato, Philippines

Rikka Bianca Condes (Institute of Teacher Education, Davao Del Sur State College)
Angel Lhi Dela Cruz (Collage of Arts and Sciences, Notre Dame of Midsayap College)
Marry Joy Badilles (Gastav High School)
Harold Fuentes (Institute of Mathematics Arts and Sciences, Davao Del Sur State College)
Romeo, Jr. Bordios (Junior High School, Notre Dame of Midsayap College)
Amera Malaco (Sultan Kudarat State University)
Sarip Tarita Ampatuan-Ali (Cotabato State University)
Norolhaq Usop (Camp Darapanan Integrated School)
Ryan Oños (Mamasapano National High School)
Cherie Mangaoang (University of Southern Mindanao, Collage of Science and Mathematics)

East Asian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (EAJMR)
Vol. 2 No. 3 (2023): March 2023

This study was conducted to document bryophyte species in a forest patch of Pres Roxas, Cotabato, Philippines. A modified belt transect method was employed and 3 transect lines were established along the human-established trail. Moreover 5 1x1m2    quadrats were randomly established in each transect line.  A total of 18 species of mosses and liverworts were identified. These species were classified under 11 families, and 14 genera.  Nine (9) species of bryophytes were identified from both transect 1 and 2 while in transect 3, only 5 species thrived. Of the 18 species identified, Thiudium benguetense is found in the 3 transect lines established. Two (2) were identified endemic to the Philippines - Ecthropothecium ferrugineum  and Thiudium benguetense.  Moreover, similarity index showed that 86% are discordant species and each transect line harbors unique species of bryophytes. It is recommended that intervention in the protection and conservation of the remaining flora community of the mountain ecosystem must be employed given that community is dependent on the water coming from it.