ABSTRACT PASILAN, MARY GRACE J. Central Mindanao University Town, Musuan, Bukidnon, March 2011.

Frog Diversity as Water Quality Indicator in Barangay Crossing, Libona, Bukidnon.

Major Adviser: Dr. Angela Grace Toledo Bruno

This study was conducted at Barangay Crossing, Libona, Bukidnon to determine the frog diversity in relation to water quality. Two study stations, a spring and a river, were established as basis of comparison. Opportunistic sampling method, visual encounter and water quality test were done to answer the objectives of the study. Sampling were done from January 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 to January 22, 2011. A total of 5 species were collected representing two families- Ranidae( Limnonectis leytensis, Lemnonectis magnus, Platymantis guentheri and Occidozyga laevis) and Bufonidae (Bufo marinus). The most abundant frog species in two stations is Bufo marinus. The most abundant frog species in site 1 was Bufo marinus as well as in site 2. Species richness was high on site 2. Species diversity index was high in site 1. Evenness index was high on site 1. Similarity index for the two stations was high at 89%. The quality of water in site 1 was slightly acidic but high in frog diversity. Acidity of water is a good indicator of frog diversity. There was a significant difference in frog diversity between two sampling sites. There was also significant difference on pH, turbidity, transparency, and temperature of water between two sampling site therefore the null hypotheses were rejected. Therefore site 1 was more diverse than site 2. In terms of water quality, Site 1 is better as also proven by its high diversity. The main threat in the area was the domestic activity of the residents, which includes bathing and

washing clothes. These activities will endanger the frog diversity and survival rate in the study site. It is recommended to increase sampling periods to get more reliable data on species richness and diversity, also to investigate other environmental factors that affect frog species diversity and distribution. Furthermore, preservation of the spring must be done to maintain the quality of water and to protect the habitat of frogs. Finally, it is also recommended that domestic activities must be regulated for they might damage the quality of water in the sites.