Autecology of Lilium philippinense Baker (Liliaceae)

This study was conducted to establish the autecology of Lilium philippinense Baker. Specifically, this study was completed to establish and analyze the distribution patterns and characterize the microenvironment of the different sub-populations of L.philippinense. An extensive survey in the Cordillera Central Range (CCR) showed that there are 118 sub-populations which were aggregated into four clusters based on results of hierarchical cluster analysis. These four clusters may represent four metapopulations. Mapping the 118 sub-populations sites showed a narrow and fragmented distribution pattern, specifically on the southwestern slopes of the CCR suggesting distinct temperate microenvironments in this area. Results of correlation and regression analyses showed that the ecological and morphometric parameters and associated plant species are correlated in all the sub-populations. Morphometric traits such as anther length, height and number of seeds per capsule were found to exhibit significant variation among the sub-populations. Principal component analyses demonstrate that the sub-populations are similar in ecological, morphometric and associated plant species. This suggests that at present, they are still homogenous. Vegetation analysis showed that the associated species of L.philippinense are Imperata cylindrica (L.) P. Beauv., Miscanthus sinensis Anders and Themeda triandra Forssk. All three species exhibit common characteristics like tolerance to distributed habitats, demand for light as they grow in open spaces, have a wide range of soil pH and are pioneer species in plant succession. In general, these findings reveal that L. philippinense is a pioneer species and its still on its way to adaptive radiation. Additional evidence is the young geological age of the CCR, the rocky substrate and thin soil where this species usually grow. The life cycle of L. philippinense was also elucidated in this study. Findings show that it exhibit a reproductive rate of 26.295 over its entire life cycle which is three years. The data demonstrate that the sub-populations have the capacity for rapid population increase. However, the local people indicated that there are threats to the survival of this species. The different phenophases in this species was chronologically calendered and a life cycle graph was drawn. The baseline information that was generated in this study can provide insights to the development of more efficient conservation strategies of this endemic species.