Environmental factors affecting arthropods faunal diversity in brgy. [Barangay, village] San Miguel, Butacan [Philippines]

In many ecosystems, arthropods have the greatest species diversity and biomass. They are critical to nutrient cycling and play important roles in natural ecosystems. Understanding terrestrial arthropods diversity and abundance is essential to prioritize areas for conservation actions and to eradicate activities such as conversion of forest areas to agricultural lands. Barangay [village] San Juan, San Miguel, Bulacan [Philippines] serves as habitat for terrestrial arthropods due to its climate. Application of agrochemicals, agro-practices, changes in atmospheric conditions, and vegetation contributes to the distribution of the insects in area. Certain modifications in the land influence the declamation of arthropod diversity, therefore, assessing arthropod distribution is relevant in determining the overall well-being of the area. Assessment of arthropod diversity in relation to environmental factors such as ambient air temperature, humidity, soil quality, and anthropogenic activities were conducted in July to November 2016 in three areas in the barangay with different land uses. The soil samples were collected using SWMB guidelines while anthropogenic activities were determined by conducting survey during sampling periods. The study found that distribution and abundance of arthropod species depends in the changes of environmental variables relevant to their survival and habitat. There are 906 individuals from 57 different families collected in the 3 sampling stations. The most abundant species is from Formicidae family from order Hymenoptera which is considered as a bio-indicator of habitat degredation followed by Pieridae and Acrididae. Erebidae, Nymphalidae, Lycanidae, Pyalidae, and Pieridae are also good bio-indicators of changing landscape and habitat. Moreover, Barangay San Juan's agricultural lands have the highest nitrogen and phosphorus content, exceeding the standard level due to the residents' activity such as application of fertilizer and pesticides, and agricultural land practices.