Plant Diversity in the Forest Ecosystem of Bataan Natural Park, Philippines

Abstract

The diversity of plants at the forested areas of Bataan Natural Park (BNP) was assessed to determine the exploitation and conservation status of the forest ecosystem in Bataan, Philippines. Plants were collected, preserved, described, identified, and classified. The quantitative description of each plant species was determined for diversity assessment. Data were gathered
using quadrat sampling method in the ten pre-selected stations. A total of 189 plant species were surveyed in the area, under 65 families of which belong to Moraceae, Rubiaceae, and Araceae. Trees, shrubs, vines and herbs are the most common, with some ferns, grasses and epiphytes and representatives of sedge and moss. Shannon’s Diversity Index showed that the forest ecosystem in Bataan Natural Park exhibited high diversity. Jade vine, which is endemic to the country, is still present in the area but is already
listed as endangered species in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of 2013. Fifteen species were endemic, 15 were introduced plant species, and two were invasive plant species. There were threats in the forest ecosystem which included timber poaching, kaingin practices, soil erosion, charcoal making, and wildlife hunting.