#conservation status

This study assessed the species composition, diversity, and conservation status of ferns (Pteridophyta) in Barangay New Casul, Mutia, Zamboanga del Norte. Three 10 × 10-meter quadrats were established across distinct microhabitats, and ferns were identified using morphological and taxonomic references. A total of sixteen fern species from nine families were recorded, representing both terrestrial and epiphytic forms. The families Aspleniaceae and Nephrolepidaceae were the most represented, while Athyriaceae, Dryopteridaceae, Gleicheniaceae, Lygodiaceae, Marattiaceae, Davalliaceae, Polypodiaceae, Psilotaceae, and Pteridaceae occurred less frequently. Diplazium esculentum, Nephrolepis biserrata, and Dryopteris australis were the most dominant and widely distributed species, reflecting their ecological tolerance to moderate habitat disturbance. Three species carried conservation designations: Drynaria quercifolia (Vulnerable), Angiopteris evecta (Other Threatened Species), and Lygodium circinnatum (Economically Important Species). The computed Shannon–Wiener Diversity Index (H′ = 1.23) indicates low species diversity, suggesting that the area is dominated by generalist species adapted to partially disturbed conditions. These findings suggest the importance of small upland habitats in maintaining fern assemblages and highlight the need for localized conservation and habitat restoration initiatives to preserve remaining fern diversity in Mutia and nearby upland ecosystems.

Mangrove ecosystems provide critical ecological services but face increasing threats from anthropogenic activities and climate change. This study presents a comprehensive assessment of mangrove composition, conservation status, distribution, and threats across Tablas Island, Romblon, Philippines. Using transect walk surveys across all nine municipalities, botanical specimens were collected, identified based on morphological characteristics, and banked at the Romblon State University, San Agustin Campus Biological Repository. A total of 29 species from 17 genera and 14 families were documented, representing approximately 88% of Philippine mangrove diversity. Eight species dominated the family Rhizophoraceae, while widespread species, including Rhizophora apiculata, R. mucronata, and R. stylosa, occurred in eight municipalities. Alcantara and Calatrava exhibited the highest species richness (22 species each), while Santa Maria showed limited mangrove presence with only one minor species (Acrostichum speciosum). Conservation status assessment revealed 27 species (93.1%) classified as Least Concern, with Avicennia rumphiana (Vulnerable) and Aegiceras floridum (Near Threatened) requiring priority protection. Six anthropogenic threats were identified: aquaculture (7 municipalities), garbage accumulation (8 municipalities), illegal settlements (7 municipalities), agricultural encroachment (5 municipalities), mangrove cutting (4 municipalities), and infrastructure development (3 municipalities). Ferrol and Looc faced all six threat categories, creating critical conservation challenges. The study establishes Tablas Island as a significant biodiversity reservoir for Philippine mangroves, warranting immediate implementation of municipality-specific conservation strategies, restoration of degraded areas, and integrated coastal zone management to ensure long-term ecosystem sustainability.