Seed storage and seedling performance of tangal [Ceriops tagal (Perr.) C.R. Rob.] at the different mangrove zones in Southern Leyte [Philippines]

Results of the studies on seed storage of tangal propagules under normal room temperature, indicated the highest percentage germination from jute sack (98%) followed by cellophane (96%), cloth (95%) and nylon net (94%). The control treatment, sown immediately after collection had a 100% germination. However, ANOVA showed no significant difference among the treatments. Belt survey was the method adopted during the timber inventory. Total effective area inventoried was 15 hectares with 9 transect lines. The important parameters were gathered using prescribed standard forms for timber inventory. Barangay [village] Lib-og is composed of 17 mangrove species and associates under 9 families. Regeneration was excellent in Rhizophora apiculata with an average number of seedlings per hectare of 2,698, followed by R. stylosa at 698 seedlings. Ceriops tangal had zero regeneration. Plantation trials of tangal were established at different mangrove zones and exposures, following the split plot experiment in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), replicated three times. Parameters assessed were survival, height, diameter, leaf number, width and length of leaves, biomass, root-shoot-ratio, moisture content and pests of diseases occurrence. Statistical analysis showed that survival, height and diameter of tangal seedlings were not significantly affected by the different zones and exposures on the 13th month of observation. However, the number and length of leaves were highly significant in exposures and zones. Similarly, the width of leaves and moisture content of the plant were significant at the different zones. Root-shoot ratio was significantly affected by the type of exposures and highly significant with the interaction of exposures and zones. Some seedlings, mostly in landward zone and under shaded plots, were infested with larvae believed to be of Geometridal Looper worms that defoliate the seedlings. Spot holes on leaves were likewise infested with Chrysomelid beetles