Vegetation analysis of Cabitoonan forest in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur [Philippines]

Philippine forests are among the richest in the world in terms of biological diversity, many of which are yet to be explored and assessed. One such forest is the Cabitoonan forest found in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur. To further sample and list the plant species present, Acevedo (SSPSC) and Madulid (UST) conducted a vegetation analysis of the Cabitoonan forest. The study determined the floral composition and species diversity in terms of density, frequency, dominance based on basal area, and importance value. Likewise, it identified the economically important species used by nearby residents and the conservation status of these plants. About 1,767 plant representing 41 families, 82 genera, and 99 species were found in the Cabitoonan forests. From these specimens, 175 were nonflowering plants representing ferns and fern allies, 83 gymnosperms represented by Gnetum gnemon, and 1,509 flowering plants. Of the 99 species, 57 percent were trees. The analysis revealed that Cabitoonan forest was a rich source of construction materials, food, medicines, fuel (firewood), and ornamentals. Cabitoonan forest could be classified as 'Molave-type' forest with the dominance of Viticipremna philippinensis. It can also be classified as secondary-type characterized by the luxurious growth of Macaranga tamarins and other species of secondary growth. Moreover, endemism was high among trees as 54 percent of them were endemic to the Philippines. Thus the forest could be a source of reforestation species/materials. Twenty-three species were found to be either endangered or critically endangered. The two main reasons were over-collection from cutting and harvesting by community folks, and destruction of the habitat through slash-and-burn method of agriculture. The study highly recommends the need for a resolution from the local government declaring the forest as a protected area. Likewise, the people should be given the necessary assistance in conserving the forest and taught sound ecological management practices for sustainable development of their place. Follow-up studies are suggested with emphasis on fauna, fungi, mosses, and microorganisms as well as environmental analysis (i.e., soil chemical analysis, humidity) for better refererence of future research.