Assessment of metallophyte diversity, metal concentration and soil physico-chemical, properties in ultramafic soil environmental at Barangay [village] Zabali, Baler, Aurora, Philippines

This research aims to assess the diversity of metallophytes under the ultramafic environment across three transects, Diguisit, Ermita, and Saipon. A total of 149 species were recorded from 125 genera and 69 families. Xanthostemon philippinensis has the highest Importance Value (IV) with 73.52% and Barangay [village] Zabali was determined to have a very high diversity with Simpson Index of 0.9725 and a Shannon Index of 3.984. Quadrat 9 of Saipon has the highest Biodiversity Value with nine points. For endemicity, 77% native, 22% endemic and 1% naturalized species recorded while determination of conservation status reveals alarming figures, urging proactive measures for at-risk species. Furthermore, selected herbarium specimens using portable XRF were examined. It reveals no significant hyperaccumulation across the species but elements such as Cd, Cu, Pb, Mn, Ni, Se, and Zn with few from Sb were present in plant tissues, suggesting potential roles in plant growth and adaptation. Furthermore, the specimens examined on their leaves for potential Al and Si hyperaccumulation in which 25 species are Al-hyperaccumulators and eight are Si-hyperaccumulators. Casearia sp., with 1,214.55 mug/g in the leaves, emerged as a notable hyperaccumulator of Ni, demonstrating distinct patterns of Ni accumulation across different plant parts. Moreover, analysis of soil physio-chemical composition and metal concentration across transects reveals diverse characteristics and potential challenges for plant growth and adaptation, especially for non-metallophytes. Overall, the research revealed a valuable information for understanding ecosystem health, providing insights for conservation strategies, and emphasizing the need for further research to ensure sustainable environmental practices. The results are useful for the local government of Aurora for a sound and well-informed management strategies for monitoring and land-use decisions.