Assessment of the diversity and ecological status of bryophytes in the Mt. Kitanglad Nature Park in Bukidnon [Philippines]

Findings showed that the most species-rich within the moss species gathered belonged to the family Meteoriaceae (9 genera, 44 species) followed by the family Dicranaceae (7 genera, 43 species). Of the liverworts collected, the most species-rich came from the family Plagiochilaceae (1 genus, 26 species) followed by the family Lepidoziaceae (2 genera, 20 species). Then again, there were still ten unidentified species of liverworts noted. The total number of bryophytes was significantly related to moisture and vegetation types as several unidentified species of bryophytes were observed between vegetation types. The lower montane vegetations showed high species richness and diversity values with 112 bryophyte species found in the area and a diversity value of 4.71. This was followed by the mossy forest with 108 species and with a diversity value of 4.68. The upper montane forest had the lowest species richness and diversity with only 87 species and diversity value of 4.46. Moss species belonging to the Orthotrichaceae, Neckeracerae, Pterobryaceae and Meteoriceae were found to be epiphytic on tree trunks while species belonging to the genus Sphagnum, Fissidens, Pogonatum, Breutelia, Dawsonia, Hypnodendron, and Rhodobryum grew on moist soil. There were also species growing on rock surfaces and boulders in lowland montane forests. These include Fissidens, Thuidium, Ectropothecium, Campylopus, and Plagiomnium. Some species of liverworts belonging to the family Lepidoziaceae, Plagiochilaceae, Schistochilaceae, and Trichocoleaceae thrived on decayed logs and thick litters while species from the genus Anthoceros lived in various habitats. Research results also revealed nine endemic species, which include eight species for mosses, one species for liverworts, and non for hornworts. Two endemic species namely Ectropothecium ferrugeum (C. Mull) Jaeg. and Thuidium benguetense Broth ex. Bartr were found to be endemic to the Philippines. Four possibly endangered species from the genus Dawsonia and Breutelia were also noted. Based on local assessment, a total of 141 species were regarded as rare while others were noted as widespread. The results likewise showed that 46 species might be new (43 for mosses and 3 for liverworts). Specifically, there were 17 families and 20 genera observed for mosses while there were 3 potentially new families with 2 genera noted for liverworts. Lastly, some species of mosses and liverworts were found to have medicinal properties. Eleven moss species and 6 species of liverworts were identified to be effective remedies for various ailments such as cardiovascular problems, fungal infections, healing burns and bruises, insect bites and pulmonary tuberculosis, among others.