Diversity assessment of tree species in Mount Mayapay, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, Philippines

Abstract

High tree species diversity is generally considered a positive indicator of ecosystem health and resilience. This study provides the diversity assessment of the tree species in the part of Mount Mayapay situated in Barangay Sangay, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, including its conservation status. The assessment documented a total of 23 species belonging to 17 different families. Falcataria falcata, Swietenia macrophylla, and Polyscias nodosa were the most abundant species in the area, and most of the species belong to the Moraceae family. Notably, the Pterocarpus indicus, which is listed as Endangered by the IUCN Red List and Vulnerable under DENR Administrative Order 2017-11, and Litsea philippinensis, categorized as Near Threatened by the IUCN, were recorded, highlighting key local conservation priorities. A Shannon–Wiener Index of 2.798 indicates moderate floristic diversity, while importance value analysis identified F. falcata and S. macrophylla as the most ecologically significant species. Small trees' random distribution pattern and dominance suggest a relatively young stand shaped by natural regeneration and deliberate planting. These findings provide crucial insights into species composition, ecological significance, and diversity, and they underscore the need for comprehensive research across the entire area—including steep slopes—to guide conservation strategies for threatened species in the area.