WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS

BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND

MONITORING MANUAL

To provide a simple, scientific, and process-oriented guide

for national biodiversity assessment and monitoring.

SEPTEMBER 2017
WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY
ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
Biodiversity Management Bureau. (2017).
Wetlands Ecosystems Biodiversity Assessment
and Monitoring Manual. 120 pages
Reproduction of this publication in full or in
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and other non-commercial purposes is
authorized withour prior permission from
the publisher, provided that the Biodiversity
Management Bureau and the Deutsche
Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit
(GIZ) GmbH is fully acknowledged.
Reproduction of this publication for sale or
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ISSN:
Printed by: VG Printing
Publisher: Biodiversity Management
Bureau and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für
Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH
Year of publication: 2017
Copyright on photos:The photo used in
the front cover of this publication is
owned by Jacqueline Hernandez
Layout/Design: 622Design
Disclaimer: The views expressed are those
of the writers and contributors and do not
necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.
Table of Contents

1. About This Manual  vii 5.2 Materials, Equipment, Software and Costing  32
1.1 At a Glance vii 5.3 Suggested Partnerships 32
1.2 Why Another Manual?  vii 5.4 Matrix of Parameters to be Monitored 32
1.3 What are the Goals of this Manual?  vii 5.5 Steps in Establishing Permanent Monitoring Plot/
Station32
In a Nutshell viii
5.6 Methods for Hydrologic Unit and Watershed
Before You Begin: Is This Manual For You? viii
Delineation35
List of Tables ix
5.6.1 Climatic Type Identification  35
List of Figures  x
5.6.2 Hydrologic Unit/Watershed Delineation using
2. Introduction  13 Topographic Map 35
3. Approaches for Enhancing the Wetlands Monitoring 5.6.3 Site Selection criteria for Stream Flow Moni-
Component of the BMS 13 toring  37
3.1 Methodology 18 5.6.4 Stream and Surface Water Volume Measure-
ment39
3.2 Materials, Equipment, Software and Costing  18
6. Data Analysis and Interpretation of Results 43
3.3 Suggested Partnerships  19
6.1 Basic Hydrograph 43
4. Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing
Methodologies20 7. Water Quality: Physico-Chemical Aspects  46
4.1 Introduction to Maps and Mapping Technologies 7.1 Preparation of Wetlands Water Quality Monitoring
20 Plan47
4.1.1 Geographic Information System (GIS) 20 7.2 Flowchart of Methodology  48
4.1.2 Remote Sensing (RS) 20 7.3 Materials, Equipment, Software and Costing  48
4.1.3 GIS-based Assessment and Monitoring 20 7.4 Suggested Partnerships  48
4.1.4 Geo-tagging 20 7.5 Matrix of Parameters to be Monitored  50
4.2 Interpolation of Sampling Sites and Attribute 7.6 Establishment of a Permanent Monitoring Plot/
Data20 Station  50
4.2.1 Hydrology components (Streamflow) 20 7.7 Water Quality: Physico-chemical Aspects
Assessment And Monitoring Methodologies  50
4.2.2 Water Quality 20
7.7.1 Preparation of wetlands water
4.2.3 Phytoplankton (lake and river) 23
quality monitoring plan  50
4.2.4 Aquatic Macrophytes 24
7.7.2 Conduct Of A Field Survey To Locate
4.2.5 Fisheries 25 Sampling Stations And Ecological Characteriza-
tion Of The Wetland 50
4.2.6 Megafauna 27
7.7.3 Conduct of actual field measurements
4.3 Encoding data collected from the field
and sample collection  52
work by all components 30
7.7.4 Procedures for Measuring Water Quality
5. Hydrologic Unit and Watershed Delineation 30
Parameters55
5.1 Methodology  32
7.7.5 Sampling frequency 57

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 7.8 Data Analysis and Interpretation of 9.5.1 Preliminary Steps 75
The Results 57
9.5.2 Establishment of monitoring sites 77
7.8.1 Organizing the Data 57
9.6 Aquatic Macrophytes Assessment
7.8.2 Conducting data trending and analysis 57 And Monitoring Methodologies 77
7.8.3 Estimating Pollution Load 58 9.6.1 Species Composition 77
7.8.4 Interpretation of the Results 61 9.6.2 Frequency of Occurrence 78
7.8.5 Development of Recommendations 61 9.6.3 Correlation Analysis 79
8. Water Quality: Biological Aspects (Phytoplankton) 9.6.4 Identifying the Scientific Names of the
62 Aquatic Macrophytes 79
8.1 Flowchart of Methodology 62 9.6.5 Procedure in Collecting Plant Specimens 80
8.2 Materials, Equipment, Software and Costing 63 9.7 Data Analysis And Interpretation
Of The Results 80
8.3 Suggested Partnerships 63
10. Fisheries (Freshwater Lakes And Rivers)  80
8.4 Matrix of Parameters to be Monitored 63
10.1 Flowchart of Methodology 84
8.5 Steps Towards Establishment Of Permanent
Monitoring Plot/tation 63 10.2 Materials, Equipment, Software and Costing 84
8.6 Water Quality: Biological Aspects 10.3 Suggested Partnership 85
(Phytoplankton) Assessment And Monitoring
10.4 Parameters for Fisheries Biodiversity
Methodologies63
Assessment and Monitoring 85
8.6.1 Preparation of sampling bottles 63
10.5 Steps Towards Establishment of a Permanent
8.6.2 Collection of Phytoplankton 65 Monitoring Plot/Station 85
8.6.3 Algal identification 66 10.6 Fisheries Assessment and Monitoring
Methodologies85
8.6.4 Counting Algal Units Using the
Hemocytometer Method 66 10.6.1 Fisheries Inventory 85
8.6.5 Determining algal taxa and the species 10.6.2 Fisheries Resource Mapping 86
density in a water sample 67
10.6.3 Fish Catch Monitoring 89
8.6.6 Determination of species diversity 69
10.7 Data Analysis and Interpretation
8.6.7 Biomass determination 69 of the Results 90
8.7 Data Analysis And Interpretation 10.7.4 Fishery Inventory 90
Of The Results 71
10.7.5 Fisheries Resource Mapping 90
8.7.1 Interpretation of Results 71
10.7.6 Fish Catch Monitoring 92
8.7.2 Development of Recommendations 72
11. Wildlife/Megafauna 95
9. Aquatic Macrophytes  72
11.1 Flowchart of Methodology 95
9.1 Flowchart of Methodology 74
11.2 Materials, Equipment, Software and Costing 95
9.2 Materials, Equipment, Software and Costing 75
11.3 Suggested Partnerships 96
9.3 Suggested Partnerships 75
11.4 Matrix of Parameters to be Monitored 96
9.4 Matrix of Parameters to be Monitored 75
11.5 Steps Towards Establishment of a Permanent
9.5 Steps Towards A Permanent Monitoring Plot/sta- Monitoring Plot/station 96
tion75
11.5.1 Types of Observations for Monitoring 97

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 11.5.1 Species-based 98
11.5.2 Resource use-based 98
11.6 Wildlife/Megafauna Assessment
And Monitoring Methodologies 99
11.6.1 Transect Cruise 99
11.6.2 Transect Walk 103
11.6.3 Field Diary 103
11.6.4 Bird Count 104
11.6.5 Bat Count 104
11.6.6 Assessment and Monitoring Methods for
Amphibians and Reptiles = Visual Encounter
Survey- Transect (VEST) 105
11.7 Data Analysis and Interpretation
of the Results 106
11.7.1 Data Organization (for all methods) 106
11.7.2 Data Analysis (for all methods) 106
11.7.3 Important Data for Each Method 107
11.7.4 Quantification of Threat/ Resource-Use
Extraction107
11.7.5 Graphical Presentation and Statistical
Analysis108
11.7.6 Development of Recommendations 111
12. REFERENCES 112
13. ANNEXES 116
14. GLOSSARY 136

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| vi
1. About This Manual

1.1 At a Glance
THE PHILIPPINES IS ENDOWED WITH RICH AND ABUNDANT RESOURCES. RECORDS OF THE
Biodiversity Man-agement Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-
BMB), show that there are 216 lakes, 22 major marshes, swamps and reservoir, and 421 principal rivers in
the country. Out of these numbers, 7 are classified as Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs).
Unfortunately, these statistics warrant more extensive protection and conservation measures. Modern
technologies, such as the Geographic Information System (GIS), have yet to be used ex-haustively on
a national scale. Thus, this manual is an endeavor to afford more knowledge on ways to manage areas
of environmental importance, whilst concentrating on the preservation and man-agement of Philippine
wetlands, i.e. those with a salinity not exceeding five (5) ppt.
The framework for assessment and monitoring utilized in this manual follows the Ramsar Wise Use
Handbook (4th Ed.). This is in order to employ re-tool techniques in carrying out an ecosystem-based
approach in wetland management. Seven thematic components were included, namely:
(a) GIS; (b) hydrology; (c) hysic-chemical water quality; (d) biological, water quality (phytoplank-ton);
(e) aquatic macrophytes; (f) fisheries, and (g) megafauna.

1.2 Why Another Manual?

WITH THE CONSTANT CHANGES AND NEW KNOWLEDGE BROUGHT AND INTRODUCED BY THE
scientific community, several updates had to be made. The DENR currently has the “Biodiversity
Monitoring System and Guidelines for the Rapid Assessment of Inland, Coastal and Marine Wetland
Biodiversity”. However, an official guideline devoted to freshwater biodiversity monitoring and assessment
has yet to be in circulation.
Cognizant of this need, this manual was designed with the underlying goal to provide more knowledge
regarding watershed monitoring as an essential component of water quality monitoring. This manual was
designed with acknowledgement to the fact that watershed monitoring is an es-sential component of water
quality monitoring (USEPA).
This How-To Guidelines are designed for use in the Philippines.

1.3 What are the Goals of this Manual?

THIS MANUAL AIMS TO:
1. compact extensive information that can be perused easily on and off the field;
2. give recommended procedures for monitoring and assessment of wetland resources, and
3. elaborate on methods pertinent to wetland conditions and trends in the properly delineated wa-tershed.

vii |
 ƗƗIN A NUTSHELL

FRESHWATER BIODIVERSITY DESERVES ATTENTION AND CONCERN FOR IT IS AN ESSENTIAL

part of the system that runs the hydrologic cycle. This cycle is a local and global process that must be
made sustainable in its provision to the population, complemented by healthy freshwaters of good
quality and quantity and reliability of water supply. Valuing this importance, the DENR through
BMB, in partnership with the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building
and Nuclear Safety (BMUB) through the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit
(GIZ) GmbH of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Resource, Environment, and Economics
Centre for Studies (REECS), sought to publish this manual that is considered a pivot towards
strengthened protection and conservation of Philippine wetlands.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN: IS THIS MANUAL FOR YOU?

THIS MANUAL IS FOR YOU IF YOU:

YOU WILL DO A HANDS-ON COLLECTION OF DATA AND GENERATE INFORMATION ABOUT

freshwater wetlands such as lakes and reservoirs, river and streams, swamps, marshes and peatlands
that will be useful to management as bases for decision making.

IF YES, LET’S PROCEED!

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List of Tables
Table 1 Minimum GIS datasets for wetlands monitoring 15
Table 2 Materials and equipment needed for GIS and RS component 19
Table 3 Attribute data for streamflow monitoring 21
Table 4 Attribute data for water quality monitoring 21
Table 5 Attribute data for phytoplankton assessment 25
Table 6 Attributes of macrophytes monitoring within the Ilog-Hilabangan watershed 25
Table 7 Attribute table for fisheries inventory 27
Table 8 Attribute table for transect cruise routes assessment 29
Table 9 Attributes table for megafauna assessment based on the transect walk method 29
Table 10 Attributes table for megafauna assessment based on the bird count method 31
Table 11 Materials and equipment needed for hydrologic unit and watershed delineation 33
Table 12 Parameters for hydrologic unit and watershed delineation monitoring 34
Table 13 Cross sectional profile measurements* 35
Table 14 Types or classifications of climate based on the distribution of rainfall.* 36
Table 15 Local micro-watershed names of Lake Manguao, Taytay, Palawan 39
Table 16 Levels of effort expected of the cooperating partners regarding hydrology 43
Table 17 Summary of observations in various rivers, 45
October 2015*. (Source: Atega et al., unpublished data). 45
Table 18 Classification of freshwater bodies, Department Administrative Order No. 2016-08 47
Table 19 Materials and equipment needed for methods in the collection and analyses of
physico-chemical water quality 49
Table 20 Parameters for monitoring physico-chemical water quality. 49
Direct Sampling with Sample Container 54
Table 21 Levels of effort expected of the cooperating partners regarding water quality 57
Table 22 Data table for water quality analysis of one sample station 58
Table 23 Comparison of water quality results with dao-34 for two stations 59
Table 24 Runoff Estimated Concentration Values (mg/L) 61
Table 25 Materials and equipment needed to do an assessment and monitoring of
phytoplankton communities in freshwater wetlands 64
Table 26 Parameters for water quality: biological aspects (phytoplankton) monitoring 65
Table 27 Trophic status of freshwaters 73
Table 28 Levels of effort expected of the cooperating partners concerning the biological assessment and
monitoring of water quality 73
Table 29 Materials and equipment needed for aquatic macrophytes assessment and monitoring 76

ix |
List of Tables (cont.)
Table 30 Parameters for aquatic macrophytes biodiversity level monitoring 76
Table 31 Levels of effort among cooperating partners regarding aquatic macrophytes assessment
and monitoring 81
Table 32 Aquatic macrophyte biodiversity monitoring report 81
Table 33 Quantification of different pressures, threats, and resource- use types in conducting biodiversity
monitoring for inland wetlands. 82
Table 33 Quantification of different pressures, threats, and resource- use types in conducting biodiversity
monitoring for inland wetlands. (cont.) 83
Table 34 Material and equipment needed for fisheries assessment and monitoring 86
Table 35 Partners in conducting fisheries biodiversity monitoring 87
Table 36 Parameters for fisheries biodiversity assessment and monitoring 87
Table 37 Group assignments of participants by sector and resource maps assigned 88
Table 38 Levels of effort among cooperating partners in the biodiversity assessment and
monitoring of fisheries. 89
Table 39 Annual fisheries inventory 91
Table 40 Example of summary output of resource mapping in Ilog-Hilabangan River 91
Table 41 Fish biodiversity composition in Taal Lake 93
Table 42 Material and equipment needed for wildlife/megafauna assessment and monitoring 97
Table 43 Parameters for fisheries biodiversity level monitoring. 97
Table 44 Species and resource-use themes for monitoring as applied with suggested criteria, and their
applicable monitoring methods. 100
Table 44 (cont.) 101
Table 44 (cont.) 102
Table 45 Levels of effort among cooperating partners for megafauna assessment and monitoring. 106
Table 46 Comparing hornbills and selected resource-uses (hypothetical data). 109

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List of Figures
Figure 1. Framework for assessment and monitoring freshwater wetlands 14

Figure 2. Example of a Gridded Map to locate sampling sites in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 16
Figure 3. Example of a map as an output of the process of geo-tagging of sampling sites. 16
Figure 4. Example of potential sampling sites in the Ilog-Hilabangan watershed 17
Figure 5. Flowchart of GIS and RS methodology 18
Figure 6. Identification of hydrological monitoring stations for in the area 22
Figure 7. Generated hydrological monitoring stations in Ilog-Hilabangan River Basin 22
Figure 8. Sampling points representing the upstream, midstream, and downstream for water
quality monitoring 23
Figure 9. Water quality monitoring stations in Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 23
Figure 10. Monitoring stations for water quality assessment in Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 24
Figure 11. Monitoring stations for phytoplankton assessment in Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 24
Figure 12. Monitoring stations for aquatic macrophytes assessment in Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 26
Figure 13. Sample fisheries resource mapping and indication of attributes within the
Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 26
Figure 14. Fisheries resource mapping in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 28
Figure 15. Location of fish catch monitoring plots in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 28
Figure 16. Location of transect cruise routes in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 30
Figure 17. Location of transect cruise routes in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 31
Figure 18. Location of the sampling / monitoring plots in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed 32
Figure 19. Flowchart of methodology in hydrologic unit and watershed delineation 33
Figure 20. Cross sectional profile of a stream 35
Figure 21. Topographic map of Lake Manguao, Palawan (NAMRIA) 37
Figure 22. Delineated stream networks of Lake Manguao, Palawan 38
Figure 23. Local micro-watershed names of Lake Manguao, and delineated watershed boundary and stream
networks of Lake Manguao, Taytay, Palawan 38
Figure 24. Historical mean monthly streamflow data of Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed, Negros Occidental
(1971- 1979) 44
Figure 25. Current mean monthly streamflow data of Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed, Negros Occidental (2012) 44
Figure 26. Cross sectional profiling of river discharge and streamflow measurement using the Float Method 45
Figure 27. Methodology flowchart for water quality: Physico-chemical aspects 48
Figure 28. Proper position for water sampling in a wadable pool (Adapted from Water Quality and Sampling
Procedure, State of Washington 53
Figure 29. Procedure for collecting samples in wadable waters. (Adapted from Water Quality Stand Sampling
Procedures, State of Washington) 53

xi |
List of Figures (cont.)

Figure 30. Dip pond sampler 53

Figure 31. Direct sampling with sample container 54
Figure 32. Portable pH, conductivity, and dissolved oxygen meter 56
Figure 33. Sechhi disk 56
Figure 34. Change in dissolved oxygen across monitoring stations (example of a spatial graph) 59
Figure 35. Nonpoint pollution model 60
Figure 36. Water quality: biological aspects (phytoplankton) methodology 63
Figure 37. The hemocytometer grid 67
Figure 38. Flowchart of methods involved in aquatic macrophytes assessment 75
Figure 39. An Illustration of a line transect or line intercept method with a 3-meter line at an interval of 1
meter77
Figure 40. Conducting line transect method in a grassland. Note: the use of nylon rope with marked 1-meter
intervals. (Photo by IE Buot Jr). 78
Figure 41. A sample herbarium specimen deposited at the Plant Biology Division Herbarium (PBDH),
Institute of Biological Sciences, CAS, University of the Philippines Los Baños (Photo by I.E. Buot, Jr.) 79
Figure 42. Sample voucher of field label 81
Figure 43. Flowchart of fisheries biodiversity monitoring methodology 85
Figure 44. Measurement of total length of fish 89
Figure 45. Inventory of fisherfolk and boats in Taal Lake (1998-2011). Source: Mutia at al 2014 91
Figure 46. Maps generated from the participatory resource mapping and the GIS map generated
after validation 92
Figure 47. Fish species composition per year in Taal Lake (1996-2011). Source: Mutia et al 2014 93
Figure 48. Fish production in the capture fisheries of Taal Lake (1996-20111). Source: Mutia et al 2014 94
Figure 49. Fish species composition per year in Taal Lake (1996-2011). Source: Mutia et al 2014 94
Figure 50. Flowchart of megafauna biodiversity monitoring methodology 96
Figure 51. Species-based observations 98
Figure 52. Resource use-based observations 99
Figure 53. Scatter-plot for hornbill abundance and selected resource-uses
(a- kaingin, b- hunting, c- in-migration 110
Figure 54. Trends of abundance over time 110

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2. Introduction
THE GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM
(GIS) and resource mapping are integrative elements
that enable representation and identification of the
exact geographic location and extent of attributes
that describe the general state (i.e., disturbed, new
growth, mature, etc.) of wetlands and their possible
causes. The theoretical framework can be seen in
Figure 1 on page 14
GIS and remote sensing (RS) data are appropriate
tools for monitoring of wetland distribution area
and spatial-temporal dynamic multiplicity. They
can also be used to improve the recording (e.g.
databasing) of field data and information of the
thematic components. Thus, GIS data can be
organized into specific thematic components with
their corresponding feature attribute tables.
In its current form, the mapping component
of the Biodiversity Monitoring System (2001)
can be vastly improved with currently available
instruments, hardware and software. Over the last
decade, the availability, accessibility and ease of
use of mapping technologies, especially in regard
to remote sensing and geographic information
systems technologies, have changed totally in
different picture and capacity.
3. Approaches for Enhancing the
Wetlands Monitoring Component
of the BMS
1. Development of the GIS base maps for
wetlands monitoring – An exhaustive collection
and examination of existing documents can
be made of the holdings of different mapping
agencies and online sources. The minimum GIS
datasets for wetlands monitoring are shown in
“Table 1 Minimum GIS datasets for wetlands
monitoring” on page 15.
2. Development of the GIS database according to
the thematic components – The six thematic
components of wetlands monitoring covered in
this Manual are:
a. Hydrology 

b. Water quality: physico-chemical 

c. Water quality : biological (phytoplankton) 

d. Aquatic macrophytes 

e. Fisheries 

f. Megafauna
ÞÞTHE GIS THEMES TO BE DEVELOPED
• Sampling sites and water quality physico-
chemical monitoring
• Water quality biological (phytoplankton)
• Aquatic macrophytes
• Fisheries GIS theme
• Megafauna GIS theme.
EACH GIS THEME WILL HAVE ITS OWN
set of attributes and legend or symbology.
Develop this legend in consultation with the
thematic experts.
13 |
Framework for assessment and monitoring
freshwater wetlands

GIS
WATER QUALITY:
PHYSICOCHEMICAL
ASPECT

WATER QUALITY:
MEGAFAUNA BIOLOGICAL ASPECT
(PHYTOPLANKTON)

HYDROLOGY

AQUATIC
FISHERIES MACROPHYTES

Figure 1. Framework for assessment and monitoring freshwater wetlands

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 1 Minimum GIS datasets for wetlands monitoring

LAYER DESCRIPTION SOURCES

Watershed boundary Extent of assessment and analysis Interpolated from DEM
NAMRIA; DENR-FMB

Road Road networks NAMRIA; www.philgis.

org, OpenStreetMap

Barangay Barangay map NAMRIA; www.philgis.org

Town and city Administrative boundaries NAMRIA; www.philgis.org
based on town and city

Elevation Derived from the Digital Elevation Model ASTER-GDEM

River River maps networks from the topographic maps NAMRIA-DENR; MPDO;
OpenStreetMap

Bathymetry (if available) www.philgis.org

Land cover Latest available land cover map NAMRIA-DENR, Google
Earth Pro

Easement Based land cover and river networks

Rainfall/Temperature Daily rainfall data Weather Stations; PAGASA;
The Project Noah; www.
wunderground.com; www.
acuaweather.com

3. Development of a 1 km X 1 km grid (e.g. ­­STEPS IN CREATING A FISHNET:

fishnet – This method is based on the GAME
model or GIS-based assessment, monitoring
and evaluation (Bantayan, 2006) based on the
SUSDEV database system. The GAME model
divides the area (i.e., Protected Area, PA) into
1 km X 1 km grid or 100 hectare (ha) and each
grid will have its own unique gridID. Hence,
the gridded location of sampling sites can be
monitored more effectively by adding a unique
grid code to the usual set of location parameters
(e.g., region, province, municipality, barangay,
sitio, gridID) for the specific point or area of
interest.
1. Refer to the data management tools and
feature class in ArcToolbox window. 

2. Identify the extent of the area (i.e.,
watershed) and record the XY coordinates. 

3. Determine the width and height of each
cell. 

4. Determine the number of rows and
columns the fishnet will have. (Note: if you
want the number 
of rows to be automatically
calculated using the value in the Cell Size
Width/Height parameter, 
set this value to
zero, and the number of rows/columns will
be calculated when the tool is run.) 


15 |
Figure 2. Example of a Gridded Map to locate sampling sites in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

Figure 3. Example of a map as an output of the process of geo-tagging of sampling sites. (Inset shows team in the process
of geo-tagging.)

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 4. Example of potential sampling sites in the Ilog-Hilabangan watershed

5. Specify whether or not a point feature class
will be created containing label points at the
center 
of each fishnet cell. 
 biodiversity monitoring, as most people will
6. Define if the output fishnet cells will be
polyline or polygon features.
4. Use of gridded maps during fieldwork –
Depending on the sampling location and
watershed area, the maps shall be printed
according to the grid locations (Figure 2). This
method facilitates the mapping and encoding/
updating of the basemap.
5. Geo-tagging of the Monitoring Stations –
Photo documentation provides permanent
documentation which does not depend on
identification skills. The method is suited for
the monitoring of habitats, existing monitoring
stations, and land-uses. Photos can be taken at
the same time that the geographic coordinates
of the areas are recorded. Photos are very useful
when presenting and discussing the results of
be convinced by photographic documentation
(Figure 3 on page 16). Thus, the geo-tagging
also describes the mapping and updating of base
maps.
ÞÞCONSIDERATIONS IN SAMPLING SITE
SELECTION
WETLAND MONITORING REQUIRES AN
analysis of both watershed/landscape
characteristics and wetland- specific
characteristics (Figure 4).
WETLAND SAMPLING SITES SHOULD BE
selected based on land cover or land use type
distribution and watershed landscape, so
that the watersheds will include regions that
17 |
 Introduction to Maps Interpolation of Sampling
and Mapping Technologies Sites and Attribute Data
- GIS - Hydrology
- Water Quality
- Remote Sensing
- Phytoplankton
- GIS-based Assessment - Aquatic Macrophytes
and monitoring - Fisheries
- Geo-tagging - Megafauna

Encoding Data Collected Hands-on Exercise

- Data conversion from GPS to layer - Overall Data Organization and
- Map editing, overlay, and merge Integration
- Data Management and Analysis - Mapping and Output Generation
- Maps generation - Development of recommendations

Figure 5. Flowchart of Figure

GIS and RS5.methodology
Flowchart of GIS and RS metholodogy.

are minimally impaired with few expected conditions

stressors, and those with high levels of
3. Intended use of the water body along with land
development (i.e., agriculture, forestry, and
use
urban) with multiple expected stressors.
4. Convenience, accessibility, peace and order
˜˜NOTE situation, and representativeness.

IN SPITE OF THEIR BEING CLASSIFIED 5. Places that endanger the lives of researchers
under the appropriate class of intended can be put aside in favor of more hospitable
uses, many lakes and rivers, and those not conditions.
classified under any category, (e.g. Candaba 3.1 Methodology
swamp), can have other uses as practiced by
the surrounding communities. This means FIGURE 5 SHOWS THE GIS AND RS
freshwater bodies can have multiple uses. methodology.

Choosing sampling stations should take the following

into consideration:
1. Objectives of the monitoring activity
2. Selected indicators of ecological change or
3.2 Materials, Equipment, Software
and Costing
“TABLE 2 MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT NEEDED
for GIS and RS component” on page 19 shows
the cost of materials, equipment and software

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 2 Materials and equipment needed for GIS

and RS component
MATERIAL, EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT ESTIMATED
AND SOFTWARE UNIT PRICE
At least with 2 GB Per participant
Laptop/Notebook RAM, 500 Php 50,000
MB free space, Intel
(R) Core (TM) i3 or
higher processor
LCD projector with white screen 1 pc Php 30,000
QGIS Software or Commercial Open source or commercial Each
GIS Software (if available)
Google Earth Pro Free to download
Internet connection/ At least 3 mbps Php 2,000
WIFI connection
Global Positioning Systems 8 pieces Php 20,000
Digital Camera with GPS/ Download GeoCam software Per participant
Mobile phone/ Tablet for android mobile phone pieces Php 10,000
with GPS capability
Preliminary Base map gridded by 1km x 1km,
printed on tarpaulin
Push pins colored; at least five sets 5 sets Php 100
of different colors)
Yarn (at least five rolls of 5 rolls Php 20
different colors
Manila paper 1 roll Php 500
Colored pens or Crayola 5 sets Php 100
Masking tape 5 pcs Php 30
Scissors 5 pcs Php 50
Cutters 5 pcs Php 50
Glue (Elmer’s) 5 pcs Php 50

needed in carrying out the GIS and RS component.

3.3 Suggested Partnerships

PARTNERSHIP SHOULD INCLUDE DENR, NGO
and Academe.

19 |

4. Geographic Information
System and Remote Sensing
Methodologies
4.1 Introduction to Maps and Mapping
Technologies
4.1.1 Geographic Information System (GIS)
a. What is a Datum and how do you change the
Projection of a map
b. What are Scale and Resolution
c. How to prepare a GIS database
d. Geo-location using Satellite-based navigation
systems (or GPS)
4.1.2 Remote Sensing (RS)
a. Physical Basis of Remote Sensing and the
Electromagnetic Spectrum and RS sensors and
platforms
b. Google Earth Pro, Landsat and Other useful RS
resources
4.1.3 GIS-based Assessment and Monitoring
a. Introduction to the GAME model (GIS-based
assessment, monitoring and evaluation)
b. Preparing the base map for wetlands biodiversity
monitoring
i. Updating the base map with stakeholders
(e.g., community mapping)
ii. Enriching the base map with legends and
symbols
iii. Contextualizing the base map according to
the thematic components
c. Preparing the GIS database
i. The Minimum Dataset
| 20
ii. Developing the GIS thematic components
4.1.4 Geo-tagging
a. Data management
4.2 Interpolation of Sampling Sites and
Attribute Data
4.2.1 Hydrology components (Streamflow)
a. Identification of the existing monitoring
stations in the area (weather station, streamflow
monitoring)
b. Identification of point sources as sampling
points on a gridded map
c. Plotting of sampling points (i.e., GPS readings)
representing the upstream, midstream, and
downstream (Figure 6 on page 22)
d. A table containing X and Y coordinates data can
(to) be added to the map as a layer
e. Map editing and visualization
f. Adding fields (i.e. Elevation, River, Geomorphic,
Landuse, Width, Depth, Cross Section, Velocity,
Discharge) to the attribute table (“Table 3
Attribute data for streamflow monitoring” on
page 21)
g. Map generation (Figure 7 on page 22)
4.2.2 Water Quality
a. Identification of the existing monitoring
stations in the area (weather station, streamflow
monitoring)
b. Identification of point sources as sampling
points on a gridded map
c. Plotting of sampling points representing the
upstream, midstream, and downstream (Figure
8 on page 23)
 PT LATITUDE LONGITUDE ELEVATION BRGY RIVER LABEL GEOMORPHIC LANDUSE WIDTH DEPTH CROSS- VELOCITY DISCHARGE
SETTING (M) (M) SECTION (M/S) (CMS)

1 9.9687167 122.9090333 58 Tan- Hilabangan Station 1 Upstream Wooded 10 1.73 17.3 0.6 10.38
Awan river grassland;
grassland
2 9.9711167 122.9130333 64.4 Tan- Saise river Station 2 Upstream Forest; 19 0.24 4.56 0.34 1.55
Awan Wooded
grassland
3 9.985178 122.81376 19 7 Ilog- Station 3 Downstream Built-up 116 1.9 220.4 0.67 147.668
Hilabangan
river
4 9.934175 122.829 14.1 Urong Ilog- Station 4 Midstream Annual 54 2.03 109.62 1.05 115.101
Hilabangan crops
streamflow monitoring

river
Table 3 Attribute data for

5 10.022639 122.785083 10 Ilog river Station 5 Downstream Perennial; 97

Mangrove

LATITUDE LONGITUDE BRGY RIVER LABEL GEOMORPHIC LANDUSE FLOW TURBI- PH CONDUCTIVITY BOD N (MG/L) P COLI- DO
SETTING DITY (US/CM) FORM (MG/L)
wooded
9.968752 122.909 Tan- Hilabangan Stn 1 upsteam grassland; turbulent High 8.1 70.6 1.756 0.265 8.9
awan grassland
9.971117 122.909 Saisi Saisi Stn 2 upstream forest; turbulent Clear 7
wooded
grassland
9.985178 122.8138 7 Ilog Stn 3 downstream builtup turbulent High 7.83 108.1 44.61 0.14 8.15
Hilabangan
9.934175 122.829 Orong Ilog Stn 4 midstream annual turbulent High 7
crops
10.02264 122.7851 Ilog Stn 5 downstream perennial turbulent High 7.7 40.93 36.1 0.164 6.9
Hilabangan crops
water quality monitoring
Table 4 Attribute data for

21 |
WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
Figure 6. Identification of hydrological monitoring stations for in the area

Figure 7. Generated hydrological monitoring stations in Ilog-Hilabangan River Basin

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 8. Sampling points representing the upstream, midstream, and downstream for water quality monitoring

Figure 9. Water quality monitoring stations in Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

d. Adding fields (i.e. Elevation, River, Geomorphic,
Landuse, Flow, Turbidity, pH, Conductivity,
BOD, N, P, Coliform, and DO) to the attribute
table (“Table 4 Attribute data for water quality
monitoring” on page 21)
e. Map generation (Figure 9)
4.2.3 Phytoplankton (lake and river)
a. Open the given GIS software
b. Determine the boundary and extend of the
assessment
c. Add river and inland water features
d. Identify the grid of the potential stations
e. Plotting of sampling points (Figure 10 on page

23 |
Figure 10. Monitoring stations for water quality assessment in Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

Figure 11. Monitoring stations for phytoplankton assessment in Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

24) h. Edit and visualize maps (Figure 11)

f. A table containing X and Y coordinates data can 4.2.4 Aquatic Macrophytes

be added to the map as a layer
a. Identification of five (5) stations representing
g. Add fields to the attribute table given the
land use types and geomorphology of the area
headings of Province, Town, Brgy., Elevation,
using opportunistic approach
River, Geomorphic, Land Use, Species, No.
of Individuals and Species Diversity (“Table 5 b. Geo-referencing of the monitoring sites on the
Attribute data for phytoplankton assessment” ground
on page 25).

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 5 Attribute data for phytoplankton assessment

Table 6 Attributes of macrophytes monitoring within the

Ilog-Hilabangan watershed
PT LATITUDE LONGITUDE ELEVATION TYPE OF VEGETATION SUBSTRATE
(MASL)
Site 1: Ilog 9.96875 122.909 69 Grass, shrubs Rocky,
Hilabangan clay, sand
Site 2: Saisi 9.97112 122.909 80 Grass, shrubs Rocky,
River clay, sand
Site 3: 9.98518 122.8138 72.2 Grass, shrubs Clay and sand
Ilog River
(Brgy. 7)
Site 4: Ilog 9.93418 122.829 80.3 Grass, shrubs Clay and sand
River (Brgy.
Orong)
Site 5: 328 shrubs, trees, sedges, Rocky, clay,
Mag-aso bryophytes, ferns, litter
Falls ((Brgy. cryptocoryne (aroids)
Oringao))

c. Data conversion from GPS to layer ööFisheries Inventory

d. Adding fields (i.e. Name of station, Elevation,
Type of vegetation, and Substrate) to the
attribute table (“Table 6 Attributes of
macrophytes monitoring within the Ilog-
Hilabangan watershed”)
e. Map generation (Figure 12 on page 26)
4.2.5 Fisheries
THIS ACTIVITY WILL BE DONE TO IDENTIFY
past and present fishery resource conditions
including the critical areas; and generate maps of
the freshwater wetlands resources and activities.
a. Open Google Earth Pro with its latest imagery
b. Determine the boundary and extent (d) of the
assessment
c. Locate the wetland resources and resource uses
(capture fishing, aquaculture, beach resorts,
sanctuary, migration paths, and reserve areas)
d. Add administrative boundary layers (i.e.
municipality and barangay) to the map’s active
data frame
e. Add fields to the attribute table based on
fisherfolk population, number and kind of

25 |
Figure 12. Monitoring stations for aquatic macrophytes assessment in Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

Figure 13. Sample fisheries resource mapping and indication of attributes within the Ilog- Hilabangan Watershed

gear, species caught and volume of catch (open assessment.

fisheries), number of fish cage operators, number
b. A table containing X and Y coordinates data can
of cages and species cultured (“Table 7 Attribute
be added to the map as a layer.
table for fisheries inventory”).
c. Identify the species and classify these as follows:
ööFisheries Resource Mapping endemic, introduced, invasive alien and
threatened species taking care to indicate their
a. Determine the boundary and extend of the place of occurrence and habitat in the map.

| 26
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

d. Identify the issues and threats to fisheries

Table 7 Attribute table for biodiversity in the coastal communities
fisheries inventory indicating in the map their specific area(s) of
coverage.
e. Add fields to the attribute table given the
headings of fisheries resources (endemic,
THREATS
ISSUES/

threatened, introduced, alien species), inland

wetland ecosystems (seagrass areas, sandy areas,
TYPE OF

etc.), resource uses (capture fishing, aquaculture,

GEAR

beach resorts, tourism, sanctuary, migration

paths, etc.), and the issues and threats (Figure
RESOURCE

13 on page 26).
USE

f. Edit and visualize maps (Figure 14 on page

28).
CPUE

ööFish Catch Monitoring

CATCH
TOTAL

(KG)

a. Use of GPS in finding the exact coordinates of

GEOMORPHIC SPECIES COUNT

the locations of resources and resource uses.

b. Download GPS readings and covert into GIS
file format.
c. Open attribute table of a layer.
d. Adding fields to the attributes table (i.e.
SETTING

Elevation, Geomorphic setting, Number and

type of boat and gear, Time of fishing, Species
name, Total catch, Resource use, Issues/Threats)
Station 1
Station 2
Station 3
Station 4
ELEVATION RIVER LABEL

(Figure 15 on page 28)

4.2.6 Megafauna

ööFor transect cruise routes

1. Acquire a topographical map or digital elevation

model of the area, and indicate the habitat and
LATITUDE LONGITUDE

land-use/ land cover. Identify 2-3 kilometers that

will pass through or along lake shore and river
channels.
2. Convert data from GPS to GIS file format. layer
3. Add fields (i.e. Species/Genus, Relative
PT

1
2
3
4

abundance, and Habitat) to the attribute table

27 |
Figure 14. Fisheries resource mapping in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

Figure 15. Location of fish catch monitoring plots in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

| 28
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 8 Attribute table for Table 9 Attributes table

transect cruise routes for megafauna assessment
assessment based on the transect walk
method

29 |
Figure 16. Location of transect cruise routes in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

(Table 8). megafauna assessment based on the bird count

4. Locate the transect cruise routes within the Ilog-
Hilabanagan watershed (Figure 16).
ööFor transect walk, use of GPS to track
routes as a sampling unit
1. Data conversion from GPS to layer
2. Adding fields (i.e. Species/Genus, Resource use,
Number, Description) to the attribute table (Table
9)
3. Map edit and visualization (Figure 17 on page
31)
ööUse of GPS to identify the location of a
sampling unit using bird count method
method” on page 31)
3. Map generation and visualization (Figure 18 on
page 32)
4.3 Encoding data collected from the
field work by all components
1. Data conversion from GPS to layer
2. Map editing, overlay, and merge
3. Data management and analysis
4. Maps generation
5. Hydrologic Unit and Watershed
Delineation

1. Data conversion from GPS to layer. HYDROLOGY, WHETHER APPLIED TO THE

global or the watershed scale, deals with the
2. Adding fields (i.e. Species/Genus, Number) to
description and prediction of occurrence,
the attribute table (“Table 10 Attributes table for

| 30
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 10 Attributes table for megafauna assessment

based on the bird count method
PT LATITUDE LONGITUDE SPECIES GENUS NUMBER REMARKS

Figure 17. Location of transect cruise routes in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed

circulation and distribution of water. sub-watershed), based on a number of practical

It examines the movement of water from ocean
to atmosphere, and land and back. This movement
involves physical, chemical and biological processes.
Natural systems, like a river system, are influenced
by water availability, flow and quality, thus, the
nature and extent of utilization by humans of the
water as a resource depend on these.
Watershed hydrology monitoring aims to assess
the hydrologic land unit of the landscape (e.g.
methods of measuring the streamflow, velocity,
volume and quality of the water.
This section will give instructions on the
hydrological methods of measuring these
parameters, except water quality which will be
discussed in the next sections. The methods are
applicable to freshwater ecosystems, namely, lakes,
rivers and natural ponds.

31 |
Figure 18. Location of the sampling / monitoring plots in the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed
5.1 Methodology
FIGURE 19 ON PAGE 33 SHOWS THE
schematic diagram on how to undertake the
delineation of a hydrologic unit and watershed.
5.2 Materials, Equipment, Software
and Costing
“TABLE 11 MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
needed for hydrologic unit and watershed
delineation” on page 33 shows the list and cost
of materials, equipment and software required
in carrying out hydrologic unit and watershed
delineation.
5.3 Suggested Partnerships
Partnership should include DENR, NGO,
Academe and Farmers.
5.4 Matrix of Parameters to be
Monitored
“TABLE 12 PARAMETERS FOR HYDROLOGIC
unit and watershed delineation monitoring”.
| 32
Parameters for hydrologic unit and watershed
delineation monitoring.
5.5 Steps in Establishing Permanent
Monitoring Plot/Station
1. Draw the cross sectional profile (Figure 20 on
page 35) of the stream s and note down these
initial measurements: Among such are width of
the river, segment width, velocity, and stream
discharge, and take the GPS reading of the site and
name of the location (“Table 13 Cross sectional
profile measurements*” on page 35).
2. Install the permanent instrumentation
appropriate in the area, like staff gauge or water
level recorder.
ÞÞQ: WHO WILL MONITOR THE PLOT/
STATION?
A: THE GAUGE KEEPER (GK)
1. The best way to monitor a permanent
stream gauging station is to hire and train
a gauge-keeper (GK) or a person of interest
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Stream & Surface

Climatic Type Water Volume
Identification Measurement

Stream Discharge Lake, Pond & Swamp

Measurement Measurement
Preparation of
Site Selection - Cross Sectional Profiling - Surface Area Computation
Basemap - Velocity Measurement - Water Volume Requirement

Installation of
Watershed Field Survey & Permanent Gauging /
Delineation Verification Monitoring Station
- Staff Gauge
- Current Meter
- Water Level Recorder

Figure 19. Flowchart of methodology in hydrologic unit and watershed delineation

Table 11 Materials and equipment needed for hydrologic

unit and watershed delineation
MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT, DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT ESTIMATED
AND SOFTWARE UNIT PRICE
1. Desktop or laptop pc Php 12,000
2. NAMRIA topographic map (1:50,000, paper or electronic) 8 sheets Php 150
3. Rope Plastic 2 rolls Php 120
4. Meter tape 4 pcs Php 250
5. Meter stick 4 pcs Php 60
6. Pencil 60 pcs Php 5
7. Field notebook/Datasheets 30 pcs Php 50
8. Stopwatch 4 pcs Php 1,500
9. Float/current meter 2 pcs Php 86,000
10. Clinometer 4 pcs Php 200
11. Bolo 4 pcs Php 250
12. Weighing scale balance 1 pcs Php 30,000
13. Polar planimeter 3 pcs Php 70,000
14. Staff gauge 5 pcs Php 1,500

33 |
Table 12 Parameters for hydrologic unit and watershed de-
lineation monitoring
NAME OF FREQUENCY
PARAMETERS SUBWATERSHED GEOGRAPHIC COORDINATES OF METHODS
MONITORING*
Maran-Latan N 100 46’ 30”, E Daily
Streamflow 1190 31’ 30” Staff gauge or water
Alipuran N 100 45’ 18”, E Daily level recorder
1190 31’ 30”
Pinangbang N 100 45’ 11.5”, E Daily
1190 31’ 30”
Manguao N 100 44’ 45.6”, E Daily
1190 31’ 30”
Maran-Latan N 100 46’ 30”, E Seasonal
Stream Velocity 1190 31’ 30” Float method or
Alipuran N 100 45’ 18”, E Seasonal Current meters
1190 31’ 30”
Pinangbang N 100 45’ 11.5”, E Seasonal
1190 31’ 30”
Manguao N 100 44’ 45.6”, E Seasonal
1190 31’ 30”
Volume of Lake Manguao Daily Staff gauge or water
Water ** level recorder
Surface Grid method,
Water Area Lake Manguao Seasonal planimeter,
weighing scale
*depends on budgetary limitation

living near the site. The gauge keeper shall be and seasonal 
basis, GK should only fill out
responsible in the maintenance and security the form during the time of his observation
of the gauging station. 
 and reading. 


2. Provide the GK with a master water
level monitoring form (“Annex 1 – Table 2
Measurement of Lake/Pond volume: Method
1” on page 117) for GK to fill out in situ.
3. If the GK is hired on a daily basis, GK
should fill out the form indicating the water
level based on the reading in the staff gauge
installed at the river bank, or in an appropriate
place in the lake under study.
4. If GK is only hired on monthly, quarterly,
5. The GK shall submit the filled-out form
to the responsible person or hiring agency
and should submit only the original copy to
the agency and the duplicate he shall keep for
future reference. 

6. The GK shall forward the hydrological
data through SMS using a cell phone to
facilitate retrieval of information in case the
responsible person of the agency concerned
wants to retrieve the data faster

| 34
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 13 Cross sectional profile measurements*

STREAM SECTION WIDTH, B (M) DEPTH, D (M) VELOCITY (M/S) DISCHARGE (M3/S)
1 .5m .25 m .356 m per sec .25 cum per sec
2
3
4

* Mean = Kvsurface; K is a coefficient that generally ranges from 0.8 for rough beds to 0.9 for smooth beds;
(0.85 is commonly used value)
* Discharge, Q = k x Velocity x b x d

Left flood plain Right flood plain

b b i-1 b1
d i-1
Present d1
flow
Bankfull stage
height
Bankfull stage width
Legend: b=segment of the river; d= depth of the river

Figure 20. Cross sectional profile of a stream

5. Total annual rainfall (mm) 


5.6 Methods for Hydrologic Unit and Characterize and classify the area according to
Watershed Delineation each climatic type and rainfall pattern (Table 14).

*PIDS, 2005
5.6.1 Climatic Type Identification
5.6.2 Hydrologic Unit/Watershed Delineation
DESCRIBE THE AREA IN TERMS OF THE using Topographic Map
following rainfall characteristics:
1. Prepare and compile maps for the hydrologic
1. Period of dry months 
 mapping unit. A compilation map with appropriate
2. Peak dry periods 
 scale shall be made as base map for the survey, using
as reference the 1:50,000 topographic map of the
3. Period of wet months 

National Mapping and Resource Information
4. Typhoons months 

35 |
Table 14 Types or classifications of climate based on the
distribution of rainfall.*
TYPE DESCRIPTION
Type I has two pronounced seasons: dry from November to April
and wet throughout the rest of the year. The western parts of
Luzon, Mindoro, Negros and Palawan experience this climate.
These areas are shielded by mountain ranges but are open
to rains brought in by Habagat and tropical cyclones.

Type II characterized by the absence of a dry season but with a very pronounced
maximum rain period from November to January. Regions with this
climate are along or very near the eastern coast (Catanduanes, Sorsogon,
eastern part of Albay, eastern and northern parts of Camarines Norte
and Sur, eastern part of Samar and large portions of Eastern Mindanao).

Type III seasons are not very pronounced but are relatively dry from November to
April and wet during the rest of the year. Areas under this type include
the western part of Cagayan, Isabela, parts of Northern Mindanao and
most of Eastern Palawan. These areas are partly sheltered from
tradewinds but are open to Habagat and are
frequented by tropical cyclones

Type IV characterized by a more or less even distribution of rainfall throughout

the year. Areas with this climate include Batanes, Northeastern Luzon,
Southwest Camarines Norte, west of Camarines Sur, Albay, Northern
Cebu, Bohol and most of Central, Eastern and Southern Mindanao.

water bodies of interest (Figure 21 on page 37) that point.

2. Examine the contour pattern, look for “contour
crenulations”, i.e. V-shape contour lines that
indicate the location of a stream valley. Draw lines
in the center of v-patterns that show the stream
networks.
3. Using a pencil, draw a line starting at the
“mouth” or the outlet of a stream in the watershed,
and continue to trace the stream’s path all the
way to its highest elevation hill or ridge lines that
separates the watershed. Alternatively, determine
the discharge point, and then trace the part(s) of
the streams and tributaries that are upstream from
| 36
4. In working on the headwaters or upstream, trace
all of the streams that drain into a water body.
Remember that the tributaries point upstream.
Note that contour lines spaced very close together
denote abrupt changes in elevation over a short
distance. Contour lines spaced far apart denote that
the landscape is more level and gently sloping. This
is an indication of flat land. Closely spaced contour
lines mean steep slopes.
5. After tracing the streams, delineate the watershed
area by tracing the divide that encircles all of the
tributaries that drain into the main stream. Begin
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 21. Topographic map of Lake Manguao, Palawan (NAMRIA)

by recognizing the valleys and ridges. A valley is point you are studying. Repeat this process for
recognizable through its contour lines that point different points on the watershed boundary to
towards the highest elevation. A ridge has contour verify that the boundaries are correct.
lines that point towards the lowest elevation
5.6.3 Site Selection criteria for Stream Flow
6. Repeat the above step, by continuing from
Monitoring
contour to contour. Make sure to intersect the
contours at break points. Break points are the • The area to be monitored should be a stable
highest elevations where half of the rainfall in that stream channel or at least not subject to
area would flow to one stream and the other half, significant alteration.
to another stream.
• The portion of the stream to monitor should
7. Draw a line to connect all break points, making not be a braided section of the stream or a
sure to hit all high points in the area. Also, make meander area.
sure the line connects to the original discharge
• If possible, the section to be monitored
point. The completed line represents the watershed
should have a flow that is parallel to the
area boundary. The watershed is now delineated.
stream channel orientation, and not within
The following page displays an example of a
a pool area, or any other area altered by
delineated watershed.
structures that may create backwater areas or
8. Picture a drop of rain falling on the surface of a reverse-flow of the water.
the map, inside of the watershed area boundary.
• The monitoring station for stream flow has a
Envision the water flowing down the slopes as it
fixed location.
perpendicularly crosses contour lines. Trace its path
to the nearest stream that flows to the discharge

37 |
Figure 22. Delineated stream networks of Lake Manguao, Palawan

Figure 23. Local micro-watershed names of Lake Manguao, and delineated

watershed boundary and stream networks of Lake Manguao, Taytay, Palawan

ÞÞTIP BOX: CRITERIA FOR SELECTING surface waves.

STREAM FLOW LOCATION
3. Stream width is narrowest so as to
provide higher velocities that require fewer
1. Site is accessible.

measurements.
2. Stream channel width has a straight and
4. Vegetation, rocks or debris are at minimum.
uniform cross section and with uniform

| 38
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 15 Local micro-watershed names of Lake

Manguao, Taytay, Palawan
HYDROLOGIC TYPE OF LAND COVER* INFERRED WATERSHED
UNIT (NAME OF STREAM LAND USE AREA
WATERSHED)
1. Maran-Latan Permanent 85%forest,15% built up Riceland residential ?
areas & agricultural land
2. Alipuran Intermittent 40%forest 60%mixed grass & Riceland ?
agricultural land residential
3. Enelbing Intermittent 95% primary and secondary forest Protection forest ?
4. Mexico Intermittent 95% primary and secondary forest Protection forest ?
5. Malarad Intermittent 95% primary and secondary forest Protection forest ?
6. Mikadlum Intermittent 90% primary and secondary forest Protection forest ?
Intermittent/ 40% forest, 60% shrubs land and Coconut land,
7. Manguao Influent Grassland, patches of inland ponds agricultural land, ?
etc.
8. Pinangbang Ephemeral 95% forest ?

5.6.4 Stream and Surface Water Volume segment. With a stopwatch, determine the
Measurement time it takes for it to move to the downstream
end of the segment. Record the time elapsed.
ööStream Discharge Measurement • Repeat the procedure for the segments.

Method 1 – Float Method
THIS METHOD MUST BE USED ONLY WHEN
other methods are not possible. It should be
performed during windless days to avoid wind-
caused deflection of the float.
• Measure stream cross sections located at geo-
referenced points that will be designated as
beginning, midpoint, and end of the stream.
These should be distanced far enough from
each other to allow for a sufficient time
interval between measurements of the time it
takes for the float to travel from one point to
another. The midpoint section serves as the
check for the time of travel of the float.
• Divide the channel width into 3 to 5 segments
of equal widths.
• Set the float at the upstream end of the first
• Sum up all the readings and get the average
velocity using the formula below:
Discharge = cAL/T
Where:
A = Average cross sectional area of the stream reach
L = Length of the stream
c = Coefficient or correction factor (0.8-0.9) for
rocky to muddy bottom stream. This correction
factor will be used for the adjustments in the
computation of water velocity.
T = Time for the float to travel from the set length
Method 2 – Velocity Measurement Using Current
Meter
A CURRENT OR FLOW METER IS DESIGNED
for point velocity measurements in natural streams,
rivers, creeks, and open channels. It provides

39 |
accurate and reliable data measurements (Accuracy:
±1 % of measured value ± 0.25 cm/s) within a short
period.
Determine the depth of the stream segment
where measurement will be done.
• For stream depths > 1 m, hold the current
meter at 0.2 and 0.8 stream depths, taking
care that the meter does not touch the stream
bed.
• Hold the meter in its location for a few
seconds or until velocity reading on the
digital screen is constant.
• Take the meter out of the water at the end of
the set time.
• Repeat the procedure at the other segments
of the stream.
• Get the mean of the readings to obtain the
average stream velocity.
Measurement of Water Discharge from a Spring
THE SEASONS MODIFY THE AMOUNT OF
water flowing through a stream. The volume of
water coming from a stream needs to be directed to
the vessel intended to collect water within a given
amount of time.
• Use a halved bamboo pole to convey the
spring water to the measuring device.
• With a stop watch, determine the time it
takes to fill a container of a known volume.
Measurement of River Discharge
TO GET THE RIVER DISCHARGE IN TERMS OF
cubic meter per second (m3/sec) or liter per second
(L/sec), it is necessary to know the cross sectional
area of the stream, or its cross sectional profile
and combine this with the velocity of the water
traversing the area.
Cross sectional profile measurement
| 40
• Drive a wooden stake into the soil at the
wetted edge of one of opposite stream
banks. Get another wooden stake and do the
same at the other bank. Get the geographic
coordinates of the location of the stakes.
• Get a string, extend it across the stream and tie
this to the opposite stakes. Use a clinometer
or line level to ensure the string line is level
from left to right facing the upstream of the
river. Photograph the set-up.
• Mark out 1-m intervals along the entire
length of the string. Number the 1-m marks
beginning with 0-m point where the left-
hand wooden stake stands. The marked
points will serve as the observation verticals
for repeated measurements in the future.
• Use a metal tape to measure the depth in
centimeters (cm) or meter (m) beginning
from the left-hand side of the river where
Stream Segment 1 or the first 1 m mark is
located.
• Repeat the depth measurement at each of the
other marked places until the last segment
at the right-hand bank is reached. Enter the
depth measurements in Table 13.
• Mark the location of the observation verticals
intended to be used for repeated monitoring
in the future. These marks are placed on the
stabilized river bank and streambed.
• Determine the elevation of the streambed by
referring to the gauge data determined at the
verticals. Take GPS receiver readings.
• Enter measured data in a log book.
ööLake and Pond Measurement
Measurement of Area
THERE ARE SEVERAL METHODS THAT CAN BE
used, namely a) planimeter method (mechanical or
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
digital) which uses a bathymetric map, b) grid map
method, and c) weighing scale method.
Planimeter Method
THIS METHOD INVOLVES THE USE OF A
mechanical or digital planimeter instrumentation.
• Use a mechanical planimeter in calculating
any surface area (in this case a lake shoreline
boundary) with a known scale, and multiply
the raw planimeter reading by a constant,
Ca, to get a corrected reading. The constant
Ca can be computed using an equation
given in the instructional manual of the
manufacturer’s instrument. The equation is
usually presented as:
𝑪𝒂 = 𝐮𝐒𝒄𝟐
where:
Ca = a constant value (usually 19.249)
u = number of square inches per planimeter count,
unique for each instrument and dependent on the
arm length of the manufacturer’s specification; and
Sc = the scale factor of the drawing to be measured.
The planimeter scale factor usually has a (Ca) value
of 19.249. This value should be multiplied by the
planimeter reading to get the number in square
feet. Then multiply by 0.09292 to convert square
feet to square meter unit.
• If a digital planimeter is used, simply key
in the scale factor of 19.249 and begin
measuring.
Grid Method
THIS METHOD INVOLVES PLACING A GRID
template of a known dimension over a lake map and
counting the squares from the grid to determine
lake surface area.
• Overlay the template and trace the shoreline
boundary of the lake paper or draw a square
grid on top of a copy of the map and count
all the squares that fall within the shoreline
of the lake.
• Exclude in the count any square with more
than one-half of it outside the lake boundary.
• The grid template should have the same scale
as of the lake map. For example, suppose the
scale of the map is 1:50,000. 1 kilometer
square grid is equal to 100 ha.
• The area of the lake, in hectares, would be
equal to the number of squares counted from
the grid (N). In equation form, the formula is
lake surface area in hectare = N x 100
Weighing scale method
THIS METHOD WILL REQUIRE A SENSITIVE
weighing scale that is sensitive to paper weight.
• Lightly trace the boundary line of the lake into
a heavy grade of paper such as construction
paper. Cut out the newly drawn lake shape
and weigh it on sensitive weighing balance
• Measure and cut out a square of known
dimensions and weigh it too. Note: The
square cut out should be similar in size to the
lake shape cut out. For this example, use a 4
x 4 cm. square cut-out with a map scale of
1: 50,000. This cut out is equivalent to 200
hectares. Weigh this square cut out and take
note of the obtained value. For example, once
weights are obtained for the lake shape cut-
out (31 grams) and the square cut out (10
grams), use the equation below to find the
area of the lake in hectare (ha).
where:
41 |
As = area of square cut out in hectare per unit of
weight (gram),
A1 =area of the square cut out (in this case equal to
200 hectares), and
W1 = obtained weight (10 grams) of the square cut
out.
• Compute for the total area of the lake using
the equation,
𝑨𝑳 = 𝑾𝟐 × 𝑨𝑺
where:
AL = total area of the lake in hectare,
W2 = obtained weight (31 grams) of the lake shape
cut out, and
AS = area of square cut out in hectare per unit of
weight (gram).
𝐴𝐿 = 31 × 20 = 620 ℎ𝑎
Measurement of Volume
THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO CALCULATE
or estimate the volume of a lake or pond. Basically,
these require two important steps. The first step is
to compute the surface area of the lake. Lake area
measurements can be done in several methods,
namely a) planimeter method (mechanical or
digital) using bathymetric map; b) grid map
method, and c) weighing scale method (Mean
Depth Method). Three methods are discussed
below.
Planimeter Method Using Bathymetric Map
THIS METHOD REQUIRES AN ACCURATE
depth contour map and a planimeter. The
procedure consists of determining the volumes
| 42
of successive layers of water (frustums), and then
adding these volumes to obtain the total volume
of the lake. (See examples in “Annex 1 – Table 2
Measurement of Lake/Pond volume: Method 1”
on page 117). The formula in computing the
volume of a lake is the frustum of a circular cone.
This formula is:
where:
V = volume of water,
H = difference in depth between two successive
depth contours,
A1 = area of the lake within the outer depth contour
being considered; and A2 = area of the lake within
the inner contour line under consideration.
Grid Map Method
THIS METHOD IS OCCASIONALLY USED. LIKE
the first method, it also requires an accurate depth
contour map and a planimeter. Variables and
general procedures are the same as in Method No. 1.
(See examples in”Annex 1 – Table 3 Measurement
of Lake/Pond volume: Method 2” on page 117).
It is applied to find the volume of prismoidal forms.
The formula is:
Mean Depth Method
• Examples of this method are given in “Annex
1 – Table 4 Measurement of Lake/Pond
Volume: Method 3” on page 118.
• Lay out a 250m X 250 m grid to cover the
entire lake or portions of the lake.
• Use a fish finder that can get bathymetric
readings over the grid.
• Count the number of soundings obtained.
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 16 Levels of effort expected of the cooperating

partners regarding hydrology
WETLAND LEVEL OF EFFORT
COMPONENT EXPERTS/HEIS DENR/NGAS LGUS, POS ASSUMPTIONS
Assessment One-time
Hydrology 7man-days 7 man-days 7man-days Per site
Monitoring Periodic
Streamflow per monitoring
(Establishment every year (10 2 seasons every year 2 seasons every year station(dry and
of staff gauge) man- days) wet season)
Every 5 yrs (20 Every 5 yrs (20 Every 5 yrs (20
Bathmetry man-days) man-days) man-days) Per site
LGU (BANTAY
COMPONENT EXPERT/HEI DENR/OTHER NGAS DAGAT, POS, MAO,
MENRO)
WETLANDS
Hydrology 1/yr (3 days @) 4/yr (3 days @) 4/yr (3 days @)
1 every 5 yrs (5 days) 4/yr (3 days @) 4/yr (3 days @)
Bathmetry

• Add all of these depth readings and divide by
the total number of soundings done.
• Use the formula L*W*H for a lake rectangular
in shape.
• Use the formula ∏ r 2 * mean depth in meters
for a rounded lake
6. Data Analysis and
Interpretation of Results
6.1 Basic Hydrograph
THE HYDROGRAPH IS A GRAPHICAL OR
tabular representation of streamflow or volume
of runoff rate against time. It is used to determine
the particular streamflow regimen and trend. The
concept of streamflow regime may serve as a key
index for assessing the interaction between physical
hydrology and biological processes in ecosystems
(Richter BD, et.al, 1997). The regime of a river
represents the average annual discharge of a river.
While the annual discharge varies considerably
over time, the regime is an important resource
for understanding the nature and responses of a
drainage basin to rainfall input. Hydrographs are
important for forecasting floods, pollutant loading,
etc. Figure 24 gives the hydrograph of the discharge
of Ilog-Hilabangan (IHWR) watershed. This
historical discharge shows an average normal data
from 1971 to 1979 monitored by DPWH.
Figure 24 shows that for Ilog River usually
during wet season, the discharge rate starts to rise
(53.2 cubic meter sec-1) in the month of May and
peaks in the month October (139.9 cubic meters
sec-1). On the other hand, the discharge rate of
Hilabangan River relatively plateaus during the rest

43 |
Figure 24. Historical mean monthly streamflow data of Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed, Negros Occidental (1971- 1979)

Figure 25. Current mean monthly streamflow data of Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed, Negros Occidental (2012)

of the year. Width and depth characteristics are dependent

The latest available streamflow data presented
to the Commission on Higher Education, Siliman
University by various colleges and state universities
in Negros island (Figure 25) generally showed a
40% decrease of streamflow, particularly on high
flow during rainy season (May to November),
using data from DPWH as the baseline. This may
be due to upland land use changes through time,
and the increase in water demand for irrigation and
domestic use.
The hydromorphic characters of the rivers are
given in “Table 17 Summary of observations in
various rivers,” on page 45. Based on the study
of the reaches carried out in October 2015, the
river was found to vary greatly in width, (range
= 10 – 116m), but not in depth (0.24 – 2.03m).
| 44
on the location of the sampling station, time and
season. The range in velocity is more or less within
normal (0.34 – 1.15m/sec), a feature caused by the
differences in slope gradient and length of stream.
There was no typhoon during sampling, so the
discharge was normal (1.5 35 m3, sec – 147.67
m3.sec), discharge being a product of wetted area
and velocity. In the largest river basin like the Ilog-
Hilabangan River, Station 3 and Station 4 gave a
water discharge of 147.67 cu.m. sec-1, 115.cu.m.
sec-1, respectively as compared to the smaller
sub-basin of Hilabangan and Saise (Station 1 and
Station 2) with discharge rates of 1.535 cu.m. sec-
1. and 10.38 cu.m. sec-1. It should be noted that
Ilog-Hilabangan stations were situated almost at
the mouth of the river, while Saise and Hilabangan
stations were in the midstream portion of the Ilog-
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 26. Cross sectional profiling of river discharge and streamflow measurement using
the Float Method

Table 17 Summary of observations in various rivers,

October 2015*. (Source: Atega et al., unpublished data).
RIVER STATION COORDINATES GEOMORPHIC LAND USE W D X SECT V DC
NO. DESCRIPTION (M) (M) . (M2) (M/S) (M3/S)

Hilabangan 9.968716667 1.7

R. Brgy. 1 N 122.909033 Upstream WG, G 10 3 17.3 0.6 10.38
Tan- Awan E
Saise R. 2 9.971116667 Upstream F, WG 19 0.2 4.56 0.34 1.535
N 4
Brgy. 122.9130333
Buenavista E
Ilog R.
Barangay 7 3 9.985178 N Downstream B,A 116 1.9 220.4 0.67 147.67
122.81376 E
Ilog R.
Brgy. Orong 4 9.934175 N Midstream A,B,W 54 2.0 109.62 1.05 115.1
122. 829 E 3
Ilog-
Hilabangan 5 10.022639 N Downstream P, M 97
Brgy. 122.785083 E
Andulawan

Landuse Categories: G – Grassland, P – Perennial, F – Fishpond, M – mangrove, WG – wooded grassland,

B – built up area, and A – agricultural (crops)
W – width; D – depth; X sect – cross section; V – velocity; Dc - discharge

45 |
Hilabangan watershed.
The river develops a brown turbidity in the
wet season due to erosion of the loose soil cover
especially along the cultivated banks.
Generally, all sampling stations were located in
the downstream portion of the main watershed.
These gauging stations developed varying degrees
of turbidity during the rainy season. Moreover, the
input of heavy rainfall causes sediment transport
and transboundary pollutant loading which comes
from the upper portion of the watershed that passes
and merges toward the outlets of the sampling
stations.
7. Water Quality: Physico-
Chemical Aspects
What is Water Quality?
• The physical, chemical and biological
characteristics of a water body, which
determine how and for what the water body
can be used.
• Influences biological communities and
ecosystem processes.
• An important determinant of biodiversity in
and around inland waters.
WHILE PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL
characteristics such as temperature, pH, dissolved
oxygen and nutrients are the parameters most often
used, the biological indicators such as chlorophyll
a, phytoplankton species composition, richness,
and species diversity provide a clearer picture of the
actual state of the ecosystem in a water body.
ÞÞWHY DO WATER QUALITY MONITORING?
1. To determine whether the water body is
meeting its intended uses.
2. To identify specific pollutants and their
| 46
sources.
3. To determine trends or changes in the
biophysical characteristics
4. To screen for impairment.
ÞÞDID YOU KNOW?
• In the Philippines, water quality monitoring
is mandated by the Clean Water Act through
the Environment Management Bureau
(EMB).
• To date, (AS OF WHAT DATE?) a total
of 688 (EMB, 2013) rivers, lakes, and
coastal areas have been classified according
to their beneficial uses as described in DENR
Administrative Order 2016-08 (See Table
18).
• Each classification shown in the table has
associated water quality standards specified in
the Water Quality Criteria for specific water
uses.
• The EMB requires a minimum of ten
monthly monitoring data for use as basis for
classification of a water body in relation to
beneficial use. Once the water body has been
classified, it is then monitored for compliance
with the standards. Monitoring stations have
been established in some of the classified
water bodies.
• Section 5 of RA 9275 or the Philippine
Clean Water Act of 2004 tasked the DENR
in coordination with the National Water
Resources Board to designate certain areas as
water quality management areas (WQMA)
using appropriate physiographic units such
as watershed, river basins or water resources
regions.
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 18 Classification of freshwater bodies, Department

Administrative Order No. 2016-08
CLASSIFICATION INTENDED BENEFICIAL USE
Public Water Supply Class I – Intended primarily for waters having watersheds which
Class AA uninhabited and/or otherwise declared as protected areas and which require only approved
disinfection to meet the latest PNSDW of the Philippines
Class A Public Water Supply Class II – Intended as sources of water supply requiring conventional
treatment (coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection) to meet the PNSDW
Class B Recreational Water Class I – Intended for primary contact recreation (bathing, swimming,
etc.)
Fishery Water for the propagation and growth of fish and other aquatic resources
Class C Recreational Water Class II –For boating, fishing, or similar activities
For agricultural, irrigation, and livestock watering
Class D Industrial Water Supply – For Manufacturing processes after treatment, cooling, etc.)
Navigation and other similar uses

• The objective of the WQMA is to protect,
through stakeholders’ collaboration, the
water body and its tributaries by keeping
their water quality within the Water Quality
Guidelines or Criteria conforming to the
water body’s classification (e.g., Class C or
Class SC) or even improve the quality to
higher classification (e.g., from C to B or SC
to SB).
• A WQMA Action Plan will be prepared
in order to address water quality issues and
problems in the area and later result to the
improvement or better water quality of the
said water body.
• A list of currently designated WQMAs is
provided in the EMB website.
7.1 Preparation of Wetlands Water
Quality Monitoring Plan
1. Create a Wetlands Water Quality Monitoring
Plan. This lays out the criteria to use in selecting
sampling stations, the water quality parameters to
monitor, when to monitor, using what methods
of analysis and how, for what duration, and the
financial and personnel requirements. It includes
the forms for data sheets, and the statistical
procedures to undertake (See “Annex 2 – Table 1
Site Assessment Form” on page 119).
2. Obtain a base map of the study area that has
been prepared by the GIS team. Alternatively, a
1:50,000 topo-maps from NAMRIA would be
suitable. The base map is used in delineating the
hydrological unit. Google Earth also produces
maps in the internet useful for the purpose. 

3. Identify monitoring stations and plot on the
map. This will be validated during the site visit.
With the aid of GIS, screen out sites that are
inaccessible. Include among the tentative stations
the places that have been identified by the Wetlands
Team for stream flow measurement, fisheries
monitoring, and macrophyte evaluation. If the
water body is already being monitored by EMB,
coordinate with that office to avoid duplication of
study sites. 

4. Identify the water quality parameters
for measurement and make a checklist of
requirements. This includes the sampling method,
analytical methods, financial, and personnel
requirements. 


47 |
 Verify Actual Location
Plot Initial Monitoring Conduct Data Collection
of Stations by Field
Stations on Base Map for Specified Frequency
Survey

Ex-situ Monitoring
In-situ Monitoring and Laboratory Analysis Data Analysis
of Samples

Figure 27. Methodology flowchart for water quality: Physico-chemical aspects

5. Prepare the field measuring instruments (in-situ Figure 27 shows the schematic diagram on how
measurements). This includes: pH, temperature, to undertake Water Quality: Physico-Chemical
conductivity and dissolved oxygen meter. Check Assessment.
the instruments for functionality and do the
7.3 Materials, Equipment, Software
required calibration and/or verification. 

and Costing
6. Select a laboratory who would analyze the
samples, one that is accredited by EMB-DENR. “Table 19 Materials and equipment needed for
This is done at the planning stage to establish methods in the collection and analyses of physico-
coordination with the lab for timely receiving of chemical water quality” on page 49 shows the
samples. Most commercial laboratories also provide list and cost of materials, equipment and software
the necessary clean sampling bottles. 
 required in implementation of Water Quality:
Physico-Chemical Methodology.
7. Develop a sampling scheme that states the
timing and frequency of data collection. For 7.4 Suggested Partnerships
monitoring conformity to water quality standards,
• EMB-DENR
a quarterly collection is prescribed. To establish
seasonal variability, plan for a monthly data • LGU covered by the water body
collection. 
 • NGOs
8. Designate roles and responsibilities. A Water • Academe
Quality Specialist who is knowledgeable on the use
of the field instruments should be in the assessment • A team composed of representatives from
team. 
 each partner. This team should coordinate
with the EMB unit to know who may already
9. Prepare and secure the estimated budget. be conducting water quality assessment in
7.2 Flowchart of Methodology the area. If the area is part of a WQMA,
coordination with this body would facilitate

| 48
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 19 Materials and equipment needed for

methods in the collection and analyses of
physico-chemical water quality
MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT ESTIMATED
AND SOFTWARE UNIT PRICE
Desktop or laptop With spreadsheet and word Php 12,000
processor
NAMRIA topographic map Same as that used in the 8 sheets Php 150
(1:50,000, paper or electronic) Hydrology Section
Pencil /pen Typical 5 pcs Php 100
Notebook/Datasheets See Annex 3 5 pcs Php 100
Sampling bottles Polyethylene 10 pcs Php 100
Sampling bottles Glass (sterilized) 10 pcs Php 200
Ice chest 2 Chests Php 2,000
Portable pH meter Electronic/battery operated 1 Unit Php 5,000
with temperature probe
Conductivity meter Electronic/battery operated 1 Unit Php 5,000
Dissolved oxygen meter Electronic/battery operated 1 Unit Php 25,000
Secchi Disk 1 Unit Php 1,000
Global Positioning (may use cellphone) 1 Unit Php 20,000
System (GPS)
Digital Camera (may use cellphone) 1 Unit Php 10,000
Labels for sampling bottles 20 pcs Php 100
Marking pens 2 pens Php 100
Boat (rental) Avail of rental on site 1 unit Php 1000/day

Table 20 Parameters for monitoring physico-chemical

water quality.
PARAMETERS FREQUENCY OF MONITORING METHOD
pH Daily* or Monthly pH meter
Conductivity Daily* or Monthly Conductivity meter
Temperature Daily* or Monthly Temperature probe
Dissolved oxygen Daily* or Monthly DO Meter
Secchi depth Daily* or Monthly Secchi Disk
Total nitrogen Quarterly Sampling and Lab Analysis
Total phosphorus Quarterly Sampling and Lab Analysis
Biochemical Oxygen Demand Quarterly Sampling and Lab Analysis
Fecal coliform Quarterly Sampling and Lab Analysis

49 |
 the process.
7.5 Matrix of Parameters to be
Monitored
“TABLE 20 PARAMETERS FOR MONITORING
physico-chemical water quality.” on page 49
shows parameters for monitoring physico-chemical
water quality.
7.6 Establishment of a Permanent
Monitoring Plot/Station
THE VERIFIED LOCATIONS OF MONITORING
stations are now designated as permanent
monitoring stations. As much as possible, they
should coincide or be close to the streamflow
stations to facilitate data analysis. The equipment
requirements (pH, conductivity, DO meter)
should be purchased and maintained. A person
competent in this matter should be charged with
the responsibility of ensuring the functionality of
the equipment.
7.7 Water Quality: Physico-chemical
Aspects Assessment And Monitoring
Methodologies
1. Designated monitoring stations should be
monitored regularly for the parameters specified at
the given frequency (monthly or quarterly).
2. The in-situ parameters have been marked
for at least monthly monitoring while the ex-
situ parameters are for quarterly sampling and
laboratory analysis.
3. The site should be sampled at the selected time
and day of the month.
4. To facilitate access to data, the data sets generated
may be posted on the EMB Web site (EMB
Ambient Water Quality Dashboard).
Methods Which Appear in the Water Quality
Monitoring Manual (2008) Developed by EMB:
a. Preparation of wetlands water quality monitoring
| 50
plan
b. Conduct of a field survey to locate sampling
stations and ecological characterization of the
wetland
c. Conduct of actual field measurements and
sample collection
Let’s discuss each one in detail.
7.7.1 Preparation of wetlands water quality
monitoring plan
THE PLAN LAYS OUT THE CRITERIA TO USE IN
selecting sampling stations, the water quality
parameters to monitor when, using what methods
of analysis and how, for what duration, and the
financial and personnel requirements. It includes
the forms for data sheets, and the statistical
procedures to undertake. The steps in preparing
the plan have already been discussed earlier.
7.7.2 Conduct Of A Field Survey To
Locate Sampling Stations And Ecological
Characterization Of The Wetland
DURING THE SURVEY, BRING ALONG ONE OR
two key informants from the community. Prior to
field work, approach possible individuals in the
PA who know the area and the access paths to the
wetland of interest. This person should have the
ability to coordinate with the local community,
especially the local authorities, and is willing to
accompany the survey team.
ÞÞGOALS OF THE FIELD SURVEY
1. To get an overview of the ecological
conditions at the proposed sampling sites.
2. To verify the sufficiency of logistical
preparations, the peace and order situation,
and weather conditions. The selection of
sampling stations should include places that,
when taken together, represent the general
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

water quality of the study area. to prevent detritus on the vegetation from
being collected.
­­GUIDELINES IN SELECTING SAMPLING
STATIONS • Select a spot that has a water depth
representative of those in the vicinity. 

1. River or Stream: Select three points
• Select a spot that is not filled with dense
(stations): upstream, midstream, and
vegetation or litter, not excessively shaded
downstream. For large and long rivers
(unless the shaded condition is representative
with many tributaries, subdivide the entire
of the general area), and shows no evidence of
river into reaches. Tributaries should be
excessive animal usage.
checked for their significance based on
flow and/or pollutant load. Regarding flow • Don’t sample in plant clump base, a gator
characteristics, the hydrologist in the team hole, a bird rookery, or next to a dead frog.
should be consulted. Within a reach establish
3 sampling stations. Each station should have
ÞÞTHINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN ADDING
3 replicate sub-stations. Points where river
MORE SAMPLING STATIONS
and tributaries merge should be avoided as
sampling stations.
1. When point sources of pollution load are
present, plot additional sampling points on
2. Lakes with a surface area of less than 30
the base map and assess the contribution of
square kilometers, and which have a more
each source. 

or less circular or regular configuration or
outline: Select 3 sampling stations located
2. To assess ecosystem services, e.g., the
at the center. Coordinate with the fisheries
filtering capacity of a wetland, add one
expert in the team about the siting of sampling
sampling station each at the inlet and outlet
stations to integrate water quality findings
of the wetland. Consider the flow velocity
with those from the fisheries component. The
determined in the hydrological study.
fisheries expert makes use of certain criteria
essential to fisheries biodiversity assessment 3. Record the GPS readings and plot all
and monitoring. In any case, each sampling sampling points on the base map. 

station must have three replicate sub-stations. 

4. Take down notes about the location of the
3. Marsh aquatic environments: These are sampling stations and vicinity, especially in
highly stratified in the vertical direction, and relation to pollution sources. Take note of
often spatially inhomogeneous in horizontal industries or quarry sites using the wetland
directions. To select the monitoring station, and are discharging contaminants to it.
locate the deepest part of the marsh. 
 In addition, note down the current uses of

4. Vegetated areas:

• Do not dislodge detritus which is attached

to stems or leaves of vegetation. The sampling
device must be carefully inserted and handled

51 |
 the 
wetland (e.g. water source, fish source,
recreational, etc.).
7.7.3 Conduct of actual field measurements
and sample collection
ÞÞTYPES OF WATER SAMPLES
1. Grab Sample: A grab sample is a single
water sample collected at one time from
a single point. It represents only the
composition of water at the time and place of
sample collection.
2. Composite Sample: A composite sample
is a series of individual grab samples taken
at different times from the same sampling
point and mixed together. This may also be a
number of grab samples of equal or weighted
volumes mixed in one container. Composite
samples are preferred when the variables to
be assessed are unevenly distributed. 
At the
beginning of a monitoring program, grab
samples are employed. The data obtained
must be reviewed periodically, and the
decision on whether or not to shift to a
different sampling method can be seen from
the trends established.
ööSampling Procedures 
 stretches, carefully wade into the center current to
TWO PROCEDURES WILL BE DISCUSSED
here which apply to most wetland environments.
1. Direct Sampling with Sample Container
This makes use of a wide-mouth glass or plastic
container. The method is appropriate when:
• Sampling wadable waters
• The water sample will only be collected from
the surface
• The sample will be brought to the laboratory
| 52
and does not require filtration
Check the water body before choosing this
method. As a rule of thumb, water is wadable when
the level is below the knee, or just slightly above the
knee. Wetlands that have a maximum water depth
of less than 50 cm (~20”) qualify for this method.
There should be no evident sign of significant
pollution from sewage or industrial discharges.
See “Direct sampling with sample container”
on page 54 for steps on how to conduct direct
sampling.
2. Dip/Pond Sampler
With an intermediate device, like a dip/pond
sampler (Figure 29), water samples can be obtained
at distances as far as 3 m (10 ft) from the bank
or edge of the source of pollution, preventing
the sampler from having to contact the source
physically.
The pond sampler consists of an adjustable
clamp attached to the end of a two- or three- piece
telescoping aluminum or fiberglass pole that serves
as the handle. The clamp is used to secure the
container.
For streams, sample away from the stream bank
in the main current. The outside curve of the
stream is often a good place to sample, since the
main current tends to hug this bank. In shallow
collect the sample. (See Figure 28, Figure 29, and
Figure 30 on page 53)
ööSampling Scheme
Water Quality Parameters
THE PARAMETERS TO BE MONITORED WILL
be determined by three factors:
1. The objectives of the monitoring program
2. The available resources
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 28. Proper position for water sampling in a wadable pool (Adapted from Water
Quality and Sampling Procedure, State of Washington

Figure 29. Procedure for collecting samples in wadable Figure 30. Dip pond sampler
waters. (Adapted from Water Quality Stand Sampling
Procedures, State of Washington)

3. Budget limitations on the water body, especially regarding the types of

The sampling plan should describe these
parameters and the reasons for their selection.
It is not practical to measure all water quality
parameters in any one monitoring program. The
best approach is to develop a list of parameters that
meet the project goals and budget limitations. This
may not be easy, if there is no existing information
water quality problems obtained.
This is why it is useful to conduct a preliminary
survey of local water quality problems and possible
pollution sources. For instance, where there is
occurrence of algal bloom or fish kills, it is necessary
to analyze the DO, water temperature, ammonia,
hydrogen sulfide, nitrates, nitrites, and phosphates,

53 |
Direct Sampling with Sample Container
1. Wear protective gloves and wading boots.

2. With sample container in one hand, wade towards the center of the
river channel where the water is deepest and the current velocity
is highest. Face the upstream and wait until the plume of sediment
created by physical disturbance has cleared up (Figure 30).

3. Rinse the container at least 3 times with the river water, throwing
the used water downstream of the sampling point.

4. With one hand on each side of the container, lower it into the water
face down. Without touching the inner part of the container, hold
this to a depth at least 4 inches below the surface or halfway to the
bottom taking care not to touch or disturb the stream bed. In very
shallow water, lower it to a depth just above the stream bed without
disturbing the sediments.

5. Gently direct the mouth of the container towards the flow. Fill it to
about 4/5 full. Leave enough space for the preservative to be added,
if necessary, and to give space for mixing the sample.

6. Cap or cover the container, and bring the sample to the working
area for the succeeding steps.

Figure 31. Direct sampling with sample container

| 54
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
or soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP). When
assessing the impacts of a sewage treatment facility,
the parameters may include coliform bacteria,
ammonia, BOD, and heavy metals. If sampling is
to be done near an oil refinery, the analysis should
include petroleum oil by-products and metals.
The minimum recommended parameters for
water quality assessment are: water temperature,
dissolved oxygen, pH, electrical conductivity
(salinity), total nitrogen, and total phosphorus.
Studies have shown a strong relationship between
these water quality parameters and biodiversity
measures based on invertebrate and vertebrate
species (Carr, 2008).
For sites with known point sources of pollution,
additional parameters should be measured. For
example, an oil mill discharging wastewater
effluents to a river would require the addition of oil
and grease in the monitoring programme. Poultry
farms should be monitored for discharges of high
BOD wastewater.
7.7.4 Procedures for Measuring Water Quality
Parameters
ööIn situ measurements
TEMPERATURE, PH, DISSOLVED OXYGEN,
electrical conductivity should be taken as field or
in situ measurements using portable meters and
probes that have been properly calibrated (Figure
32 on page 56). Meters and probes are portable
battery-powered instruments with a probe that can
be dropped into the water to get a digital water
quality reading from a recorder. These can be used
repeatedly in a lot of samples. These instruments
give accurate readings, if they are calibrated
frequently. Calibration is done by checking the
meter against a standard solution, a sample with
a known concentration of the parameter to be
analyzed. Calibration should be done using a range
of standard solution concentrations, to ensure that
the instrument reads both low and high values.
Once purchased, READ the operating manual and
conduct trial readings prior to use.
The Secchi disk (Figure 33 on page 56) is
equipment used for determining water transparency
to sunlight. It consists of a weighted circular disk
approximately 20 cm in diameter fastened to a
10-meter chain or rope marked at 10-cm intervals.
The disk is with black and white painted alternating
quadrants and must be heavy enough to sink easily.
The rope must be made of a non-stretchable
material. (The rope must be periodically checked
with a measuring tape as it may shrink following
several wet-dry cycles).
To minimize interferences that can obstruct
visibility, observations with a Secchi disk should
be made during midday, without sunglasses,
and away from the shady side of the boat/raft or
shady part of the lake. The observer should look
as close as possible to the water to minimize glare.
Measurement is done from an anchored boat or a
raft.
­­PROCEDURE FOR MEASURING SECCHI
DEPTH
1. Slowly drop the Secchi disk down to a
depth where it is barely visible. Record the
depth of the Secchi disk at this point.
2. Bring up the disk to a depth where this is
barely visible. Record the depth of the Secchi
disk at this point.
3. Repeat the above procedure, get the
average of the two readings and record this as
the final Secchi disk depth.
4. Record the Secchi disk calculation on the
Field Data Form (a sample is provided in
“Annex 2 – Table 2 Water Quality Monitoring
Field Data Form” on page 120) and on the
55 |
Figure 32. Portable pH, conductivity, and dissolved oxygen meter

Figure 33. Sechhi disk

COC form. ­­PROCEDURE FOR EX-SITU

ööEx situ measurement
THESE ARE OBTAINABLE FROM FIXED WATER
samples for chemical analysis in the laboratory. For
total nitrogen and total phosphorus, the collected
samples are preserved and brought to a DENR-
accredited laboratory.
| 56
MEASUREMENT
1. Prepare a 300-ml (or bigger) glass bottle by
rinsing three times with tap water, once with
chromic acid1, followed by rinsing 3 times
under running tap water, and a final 3-time
rinse with distilled water. Alternately, ask the
contracted laboratory if they have sample
bottles prepared for total nitrogen and total
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 21 Levels of effort expected of the cooperating

partners regarding water quality
WETLAND LEVEL OF EFFORT
COMPONENT EXPERTS/HEIS DENR/NGAS LGUS, POS ASSUMPTIONS
Monitoring
Water Quality 2 mandays audit of 1 man-day/month 2 man-days/yr Per site
(Water temperature, monitoring team (parallel test w/
DO, pH, Secchi disk and review of DENR)
transparency, TN, results per site per
TP. Chl a)* yr

phosphorus. laboratory analyses, assemble and organize all data

2. Collect samples using sampling method
outlined in “Sampling Procedures” on page
52.
3. Label the sample bottles accordingly and
place in an ice chest. Keep samples immersed
in ice during transport.
4. Turn over to an accredited laboratory
within 24 hours after collection. Instruct
laboratory to analyze samples upon arrival.
7.7.5 Sampling frequency
AT THE MINIMUM, MONITORING SHOULD BE
done monthly. To establish baseline conditions,
monthly monitoring for one year in the same
station, at the same time of day and date of the
month is required (See “Table 21 Levels of effort
expected of the cooperating partners regarding
water quality” for more information.)
7.8 Data Analysis and Interpretation of
The Results
for storage, data analysis, and interpretation. Data
should be presented in a way that readers can make
sense out of them.
After confirming completeness and reliability of
data, transfer these into computer files and organize
them into data tables. Data tables facilitate data
analysis and enable quick identification of data
errors. A sample data table for one sampling station
is shown in “Table 22 Data table for water quality
analysis of one sample station” on page 58.
Reliability of the monitoring system must be
subject to quality checks. This is done through
parallel testing programs, preferably with third
party service providers who are accredited by
DENR, and/or ISO 17025 certified. An audit
of the quality management system may also be
conducted, preferably by external auditors. Partner
academic institutions may be employed for this
purpose.
7.8.2 Conducting data trending and analysis
A minimum of one-year data should be used in
the analysis described below.

7.8.1 Organizing the Data Data graphs can be presented in many different
ways. A time-history graph shows how a physical
After completion of sampling activities and the or chemical parameter changes with time at a

57 |
Table 22 Data table for water quality analysis
of one sample station
PARAMETER STATION 2
FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT
Color, PCU 3 <1 1 1 1 1 3 <1 <1
Temp., °C 22 25 24 28 27 27 26 26 28
pH 7.7 8.1 8.2 8.0 7.8 8.0 7.6 8.1 7.9
DO, mg/L 8.8 8.5 8.3 8.6 8.9 7.8 8.4 8.3 7.8
BOD, mg/L 0.8 0.5 0.8 0.8 1 0.4 0.6 0.6 0.9
TDS, mg/L 134 161 144 169 202 166 177 168 176
TSS, mg/L 11 2 3 <1 <1 6 4 1 4
Total Coliform, 110 20 230 330 2400 800 1700 130 140
MPN/ 100mL

sampling location. The spatial-trend graph (Figure
34) shows how a water quality parameter changes
spatially along the wetland.
Trends could be obtained from the data
presented in graphs. For example, the graph below
may indicate a decrease in dissolved oxygen along
the river. Test the values for significance before
proceeding with this assertion.
The data should also be tabulated side-by-
side with the water quality standards set in DAO
34 to note whether standards are exceeded or
not. For example, the data tabulated (“Table 23
Comparison of water quality results with dao-34
for two stations” on page 59) shows that the
water body exceeds the BOD standard for the Class
D water body.
The information may also show sources of
pollution. For example, high levels of total P may
indicate sewage discharges to the water body, or the
heavy use of fertilizers, both synthetic and natural
(manure based). The verification of this initial
finding can be made a part of the management
decision.
Correlate the physico-chemical data with the
biological findings on species diversity, dominance
and Chl a. The causal relationships observed
should be explained. Findings that run counter to
expectations in an undisturbed ecosystem should
be emphasized and reported to management.
7.8.3 Estimating Pollution Load
ööPollution from Nonpoint Sources (domestic/
household and agriculture)
NONPOINT SOURCE (NPS) POLLUTION, UNLIKE
pollution from industrial and sewage treatment
plants, comes from many diffuse sources. NPS
pollution is caused by rainfall moving over and
through the ground. As the runoff moves, it picks
up and carries away natural and human-made
pollutants, finally depositing them into lakes,
rivers, wetlands, coastal waters and ground waters.
Pollution load from nonpoint sources may
be estimated using nonpoint pollution models.
Nonpoint pollution models are basically a
description of the hydrologic rainfall-runoff
transformation processes with attached quality
components (e.g. nitrogen, phosphorus, organic
load). The following diagram illustrates the model.
The following input data requirements have to
be done:

| 58
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 34. Change in dissolved oxygen across monitoring stations (example of a spatial graph)

Table 23 Comparison of water quality results with dao-34

for two stations
PARAMETERS DAO 1990-34 FW1 FW2
CLASS D
pH 6.5 – 8.5 7.6 7.7
Temperature, oC -- 23.7 24.6
Dissolved Oxygen, mg/L 3.0 8.1 7.9
BOD, mg/L 10(15) 16 24

a. Watershed size constituent in runoff with the use of factors (“Table

24 Runoff Estimated Concentration Values
b. River network
(mg/L)”);
c. Topography
2. The estimated mean concentration (EMC)
d. Agriculture and vegetation cover must be derived from each pre-defined land
e. Sewer systems use type. These EMC values are assumed to be
directly related to land uses in the drainage areas
f. Land uses
and constant independently of the duration and
g. Rainfall intensity of the rainfall events;
The steps for calculating pollution loads 3. The pollution load from a given geographic
generated by non-point sources are: location must be calculated by multiplying the
calculated runoff volume from that area with the
1. Estimate typical concentrations of each water
appropriate EMC value;

59 |
 Land Use
Pollutant
Concentration
Nitrogen Phosphorus
Total Annual Load
Figure 35. Nonpoint pollution model
4. Total loads from a watershed can be calculated
by summing the loads from all the contributing
areas in the watershed.
Nonpoint sources are carried over land and into the
water body by direct runoff. After the extent of the
watershed has been determined, it is necessary to
obtain an average runoff volume generated.
In hydrology, it is common to use runoff coefficients
to help characterize the amount of runoff produced
from a given storm event of a given area. The runoff
coefficient for each type of land use is also tabulated
in the above table.
Runoff for a given area or block is then calculated
as follows:
𝑹𝒖𝒏𝒐𝒇𝒇 = 𝒔𝒖𝒃𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒂 × 𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒖𝒂𝒍
𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍 × 𝒓𝒖𝒏𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝒄𝒐𝒆𝒇𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕
The model then applies the mean runoff
concentration based on the land use in each
subcatchment and applies it to the runoff, resulting
in loads for each pollutant.
| 60
Precipitation
Run Off
BOD
𝑳𝒐𝒂𝒅 = 𝒓𝒖𝒏𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝒄𝒐𝒆𝒇𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕 × 𝑬𝑴𝑪
ööPollution from point sources (industries,
waste treatment plants)
POLLUTION FROM INDUSTRIAL SOURCES AND
waste treatment plants (e.g. sewage treatment) can
be obtained directly from these sources, or through
quarterly reports (Self-Monitoring Report) which
they are required to submit to the EMB. Data
required would be the concentration of pollutant
of interest and flow contribution of each source,
the product of which gives the load estimate per
period.
The pollution load from both point and non-
point sources can now be tabulated and plotted
in the map. Using the water quality monitoring
results and these pollution load estimates, a
decision on how and which sectors would need to
undertake load curtailment can be arrived at. These
may be fed into water quality simulation programs
to arrive at the intended concentration of the target
parameters for the given water body.
Note that the parameter values used in “Table 24
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
Table 24 Runoff Estimated Concentration Values (mg/L)
LAND USE CATEGORY TN TP
High Density Urban 2.1 0.37
Residential 3.41 0.79
Agricultural 1.56 0.36
Open/pasture 1.51 0.12
Forest 0.83 0.06
Source: Benaman, J. 1996
Runoff Estimated Concentration Values (mg/L)”
on page 61 provide only estimates. Accuracy can
be arrived at by generating reliable measurement
data on the pollutants of concern over a period of
time (2-3 years or even more) and using these to
calibrate the model.
7.8.4 Interpretation of the Results
SECCHI DISK READINGS MAY BE INTERPRETED
as follows: >8-4, oligotrophic, 4-2, mesotrophic,
2-0.5, eutrophic; and 0.5<0.25ppm;
hypereutrophic. Phosphorus (ppm) levels may
be interpreted as follows: 0-12 oligotrophic, 12-
24 mesotrophic 24-96, eutrophic; and 96-384+,
hypereutrophic.
Determine the status of water quality by way
of a comparison of the results of water quality
monitoring with the standards found in the Water
Quality Criteria for the class of water body under
investigation as stipulated in DAO 1990-34.
Determine the temporal trend of each parameter
monitored with respect to the standard for
beneficial use. The causes of failure to meet the
standards should be explained. The possible causes
of deviation that are due to pollution may be any
one or a combination of the following:
1. Significant pollution sources in the area. These
may come from point sources such as industrial/
agro-industrial activities and also mining. These
should be identified and a decision to closely
monitor their discharges for potential exceedance
BOD RUNOFF COEFFICIENT
9 0.89
15 0.34
4 0.24
6 0.22
6 0.15
should be taken.
2. Non-point pollution from heavy fertilizer use;
3. Discharge of sewage from communities due to
the absence of a sewerage system; and,
4. Uncollected solid waste thrown into wetlands.
7.8.5 Development of Recommendations
A REPORT SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR THE
management body. Findings should be presented
in simple fashion. The report should contain
the objectives, the methodologies used, the
highlights of the results of the investigation, and
recommendations.
Determine the status of water quality by way
of a comparison of the results of water quality
monitoring with the standards found in the Water
Quality Criteria for the class of water body under
investigation as stipulated in DAO 1990-34.
Determine the temporal trend of each parameter
monitored with respect to the standard for
beneficial use. The causes of failure to meet the
standards should be explained. The possible causes
of deviation that are due to pollution may be any
one or a combination of the following:
1. Significant pollution sources in the area. These
may come from point sources such as industrial/
agro-industrial activities and also mining. These
should be identified and a decision to closely
monitor their discharges for potential exceedance
should be taken.
61 |
2. Non-point pollution from heavy fertilizer use;
3. Discharge of sewage from communities due to
the absence of a sewerage system; and,
4. Uncollected solid waste thrown into wetlands.
The water quality data should be correlated
with the biological findings on species diversity,
dominance and Chl a. The causal relationships
observed should be explained. Findings that
run counter to expectations in an undisturbed
ecosystem should be emphasized and reported to
management. Alternative options must be included
in the recommendations.
Possible management actions:
1. Strengthen monitoring of industrial/agro-
industrial establishments and mining activities for
potential exceedances from water quality guideline
values; meeting guideline values would involve
improvements in wastewater treatment on the part
of the industry concerned.
2. Improve the solid waste management system of
the communities involved.
3. Improve the sewage treatment system of the
communities involved.
4. Introducing changes in the agricultural system
that would reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers.
| 62
8. Water Quality: Biological
Aspects (Phytoplankton)
PHYTOPLANKTON OR ALGAE ARE THE
microscopic pigmented organisms living suspended
in natural waters. Examining phytoplankton in
natural waters is essential to interpret the results of
the physical and chemical analysis of water quality.
Physically, phytoplankton influence water
quality by interfering with light penetration into
the water column, especially during high algal
densities. This effect is measurable in terms of the
Secchi disk transparency. In the presence of a high
phytoplankton density, the Secchi depth reading is
diminished. Presence of inorganic interference due
to silt, also interferes with light penetration.
An excessive abundance of natural food on
a sustained basis is not healthy for the aquatic
environment. The overgrowth of microalgae, called
algal bloom, is a response to eutrophication or the
process of too much enrichment of waters with
nitrogen and phosphorus. Eutrophication is a sign
of habitat deterioration. When the bloom dies and
decays, it creates oxygen (O2) depleted conditions
in the water.
Biological measurements of species richness
(how many species are represented), species density,
species diversity and algal biomass yield results that
can be used to further explain the significance of
physico-chemical findings.
In this module, methods on how to determine
species richness, species abundance, species
diversity, and algal biomass (direct and indirect
measures) will be explained.
8.1 Flowchart of Methodology
See Figure 36 on page 63 Water quality:
biological aspects (phytoplankton) methodology.
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Preparation of Sampling
Site Selection Collection of Phytoplankton
Bottles

Counting Algal Units

Determining Algal
Algal Identification Using the Hemocytometer
Species Density
Method

Determination of Biomass Data Analysis and

Species Diversity Determination Interpretation of Results

Figure 36. Water quality: biological aspects (phytoplankton) methodology

8.2 Materials, Equipment, Software biological aspects (phytoplankton) monitoring” on

and Costing page 65

“Table 25 Materials and equipment needed to 8.5 Steps Towards Establishment Of

do an assessment and monitoring of phytoplankton
communities in freshwater wetlands” on page 64
shows the list and cost of materials, equipment and
software required in the assessment and monitoring
of freshwater biodiversity, Water Quality: Biological
Aspects (Phytoplankton).
8.3 Suggested Partnerships
The physico-chemical team.
Permanent Monitoring Plot/tation
The steps in here are those utilized by the
physico-chemical team.
8.6 Water Quality: Biological Aspects
(Phytoplankton) Assessment And
Monitoring Methodologies
8.6.1 Preparation of sampling bottles

8.4 Matrix of Parameters to be 1. Get a 4- to 5-m bamboo pole of 1” X 1” wooden

Monitored stick. Screw on the ring loops about 1-m distant
from each other, the lowermost ring located at ½ m
See “Table 26 Parameters for water quality:

63 |
Table 25 Materials and equipment needed to do
an assessment and monitoring of phytoplankton
communities in freshwater wetlands
MATERIAL/EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT ESTIMATED
COST/UNIT
1. Spectrophotometer Narrow-band (0.5 – 1 unit Php 1 M (Academe)
2 nm) instrument.
(A wide band
instrument having
a 20-nm band will
underestimate the
chlorophyll by as
much as 25%).
2. Cuvettes with 1 cm, 4 cm, and 1 doz (4 pcs/size) 120/pc Php 120.00
10 cm path length
3. Clinical Centrifuge Academe
4. Mortar and pestle marble 1 Php 80.00
5. Centrifuge tubes, 15 ml, graduated, 1 doz pc Php 80.00
screw-cap
6. Vacuum pump Plastic 1 unit Php 75,000
7. Filtration equipment 1 set unit Php 68,000.00
8. Magnesium 1.0g finely powdered 100 botle Php 680
carbonate suspension magnesium
carbonate in 100 ml
distilled water.

Membrane filters 1box box Php 1,500

(0.45 porosity, 47-mm
diameter or glass fiber
(GF/C or GF/A, 4.5 –
cm diameter)
Acetone Reagent grade, 90 1 gal. gal Php 1.200
ml acetone plus 10
ml distilled water

Distilled water Absolute brand 1 gal gal Php 80.00

Crucibles Porcelain 3/station unit Academe

Oven unit Academe
Furnace unit Academe
Mettler balance unit Academe
Fire tongs With insulated 1 pc Php 50.00
handles

| 64
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
Table 26 Parameters for water quality: biological aspects
(phytoplankton) monitoring
PARAMETERS FREQUENCY OF MONITORING
Collection of Phytoplankton Monthly or Quarterly
Algal Identification Monthly or Quarterly
Determination of Species Monthly or Quarterly
Diversity
Biomass Determination Monthly or Quarterly
away from the lower end of the stick.
2. Get a clean 1-L bottle and with one rubber strip,
tie this securely at the end of the bamboo pole or
wooden stick, making sure that the base of the
bottle is level with the end of the stick. Use the
other rubber strip to tie the bottle at a place that
will avoid tilting of the bottle when filled.
3. Get the correct size rubber stopper that fits into
the bottle mouth. If the stopper has no hole, bore a
hole through it from top to bottom.
4. Get a 10-m nylon string and insert one free end
into the hole of the rubber stopper beginning at
its broader end. Pull the string from the opposite
end and tie a knot bigger than the size of the hole.
Make a loop for the hand to hold at the other end
of the rope.
5. With a masking tape, mark off ½ -m intervals on
the stick beginning at the point across the mouth
of the attached bottle. Plug in the stopper and the
sampler is ready for use.
8.6.2 Collection of Phytoplankton
ööLake
For a lake less than 30 hectares in area, locate
METHOD
Collection on of water sample
Counting Algal Units Using
the Hemocytometer Method
Shannon Weiner formula
Chlorophyll a measurement
Direct Calculation of Algal Biomass
Algal Biomass by
Gravimetric Method
the three replicate primary stations for long-term
monitoring towards the center. As to the secondary
stations, identify the location of the source of stress
in consultation with the fisheries group. Each
station should have three replicate areas. Record the
GPS readings at your sampling points.
a. At the sampling station, rinse 3 times with lake/
river water a 1-L cap bottle. After the final rinse,
move away to an undisturbed area in the station.
b. Dip sampling bottle into the water between the
0.5- and 1-m depth to 1-m depth as marked on
the stick. Pull the string to unplug the bottle,
and wait for it to fill up. When bubbling stops,
pull the sampler out of the water.
c. Get a clean 30-ml vial with screw cap and
remove its cap to prepare this for transfer of the
net algae.
d. Pour out the 1-L water sample collected through
the collecting chamber of a plankton net. Gently
tilt and swirl the chamber as the water goes
down to help wash down the algae that might
be adhering to the net). (If your net has a 30um
mesh size, only those algal cells or thalli with size
larger than this will be retained by the net).
e. When the volume inside the chamber is about
65 |
 20 ml, (this can be ascertained trough practice),
place the uncapped mouth of a vial to receive the
algal concentrate, Add a drop of Lugol’s iodine
as preservative. Screw cap. Label
f. Place the vial in a cooler with ice for transport to
the laboratory.
g. Repeat the procedure at the two other replicate
areas of the station.
ööRiver
a. Choose a stream segment that is at least half a
meter deep. Take your position in the middle of
the stream.
b. Hold the plankton net with one hand and the
mouth with the other hand. Lower the mouth
of the net in a vertical position until this is
completely underwater vertically. See that the
chamber is extended and not crumpled on the
stream bed. Hold the net in this position for two
minutes.
c. Take the net out of the water allowing the
trapped water to flow into and collect inside the
d. net’s chamber.
e. When the volume of the algal concentrate inside
the chamber is about 20 ml, transfer this
f. to a clean, vial, and add a drop of Lugol’s iodine
as preservative, screw on cap and label.
g. Place the vial in a cooler with ice for transport to
the laboratory.
h. Repeat the procedure at the two other replicate
areas of the station
8.6.3 Algal identification
THIS IS DONE UNDER A LIGHT MICROSCOPE.
The samples collected must be examined
immediately on arrival in the laboratory.
Identification down to the species level can only
be done by a phycologist. Thus, it is best to bring
| 66
the samples to the expert in the partner academic or
research institution for species identification.
8.6.4 Counting Algal Units Using the
Hemocytometer Method
THE METHOD PRESENTED BELOW IS THE
protocol for calculating cell density which is
the number of units of algae per unit volume of
water. Before starting to count the algal cells, get
acquainted with the hemocytometer and how it
gives you the algal density (Figure 37 on page 67)
Mount the hemocytometer under the low power
objective (LPO). Locate the 5 X 5 grid shown at
the center of the figure above (Figure 4.1). Two of
this figure can be found on the opposite sides of
the median groove of the hemocytometer. Know
the area of each of the five smaller boxes on each
side of the big central box. Each small box has
an area of 0.04 mm2. This small box has smaller
boxes. The size (area) of a smaller box is 0.0025
mm2. The depth of the liquid under the coverslip
is 0.1mm. Thus, under the box with area of 0.04
mm2, the volume of water would be 0.0004mm3.
Under the smaller box with an area of 0.0025mm2,
the volume of water will be 0.00025 mm3. To
express the counts in terms of units/ml, we have
two examples below.
1. For small cells:
Example:
Total count in the five squares = 187 units.
1 square has an area of 1/25 mm2 = 0.04 mm2,
Depth = 0.1 mm.
Total volume in each square is Area X Depth =
(0.04) x (0.1) = 0.004 mm3.
Since there are five squares, the combined
volume = 5 x (0.004) = 0.02 mm3. Thus, there are
187 particles in a volume of 0.02 mm3
To find out how, how many units would there
be in 1 mm3, 187/ (0.02) = 9350 units / mm3.
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 37. The hemocytometer grid

There are 1000 mm3 (cubic millimeters) in one
cm3, or 1 cc = 1,000 mm3 1 cubic centimeter = 1
milliliter
1 cc = 1 ml
So the density of the species counted = 9,350,000
per ml.
2. For big cells:
Big cells require counting over a larger surface
area. Use the bigger squares on the grid. Count
the total number of units in the four largest corner
squares plus the middle combined. Each square has
surface area of 1 mm-squared and a depth of 0.1
mm, giving it a volume of 0.1 mm3.
Total count in the five biggest squares = 125 units
1 square has an area of 1mm2, Depth = 0.1mm
Total volume in each square is Area x Depth =
(1mm2) X 0.1 m = 0.1 mm3
If the cell suspension is too concentrated, cell
density must be reduced to make counting easier.
In that case you must multiply the final count by
the dilution factor.
Example:
Dilute a suspension of Eudorina colonies 10-
fold. If the final count equals 250,000 units/
ml, then the count in the original (undiluted)
suspension is 10 x 250,000 which is 2,500,000
units/ml.
8.6.5 Determining algal taxa and the species
density in a water sample
KNOWING THE PROCEDURES ABOVE, YOU
are now ready to determine species density, or the
number of units of a species in a given volume of
67 |
algal concentrate. Note: however, that algae seen
under the microscope exhibit different forms of
thallus or body.
The forms are: single cells, a colony of cells
called coenobium which has a definite number of
cells arranged in a definite pattern, an aggregate of
cells with or without a definite shape, or a hair- like
string of cells with or without branches.
For our purpose, units of algae will be counted
instead of individual cells. One unit of algal thallus
pertains to:
1. a naturally occurring single cell of a species,
2. a coenobium, that is, a colony of cells of a
definite number and position relative to each other,
3. an aggregate of cells with or without a definite
number, or;
4. a segment of a filament.
To even out the size of one unit among different
species, an arbitrary number of cells in a colony
or filament is set. In the case of colonial algae, a
unit may be a group of 30 cells. One can estimate
the number of 30-celled units in a bigger colony.
In the case of filamentous species, one may use a
20 – 30-celled segment as a unit. The width of
the filament may be used as bases for determining
the number of cells in a filament. The aim is to
make one unit of a species comparable to one
unit of another species. The idea is to make the
units between species as closely similar in volume
as possible. Sometimes, the filaments naturally
fragment when mounted. One can use the average
length of these fragments as basis for determining
how many cells a unit of the species should be.
­­PROCEDURE
1. Mount a hemocytometer under the low
power objective. Place the cover glass over
both grids.
| 68
2. Gently mix well a vial of algal concentrate
representing Replicate area 1 of Station 1.
Get a Pasteur pipette and fill it by dipping
its tip into the vial to fill by capillary action.
3. Hold the pipette at a slanting position
(~450 angle) enough to control flow rate,
and place the tip at the leading or closest edge
of the coverslip. Steady the pipette tip with
a finger and gently allow the sample to flow
quickly and evenly into the hemocytometer
chamber to fill it without flooding. If flooding
occurs, rinse hemocytometer and coverslip
with distilled water, and repeat procedure.
4. Determine the algal taxa present in the
hemocytometer mount. List all the taxa
observed from each hemocytometer mount.
Enter your findings in “Annex 4 -Table 1
Line Transect Data” on page 123.
5. Complete the table to enable you to
determine the percent (%) contribution of
each algal to the community of algae in the
sampling station (% Class composition).
6. Count the number of units of each taxon
in the hemocytometer mount.
7. Convert the count per algal genus of species
to algal species density in terms of units/ml
of algal concentrate as described in Section
4.3.4. Enter the values in table in “Annex 4
- Table 2 Frequency Data for a Transect” on
page 124. If a unit has a part of it extending
outside of the box, count it only if more than
½ is in.
8. Repeat the counting procedure in the two
other replicate mounts taken from the same
vial of one replicate area under a sampling
station.
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
9. Repeat the procedure of counting the
number of units per taxon in triplicate
mounts from each other two other areas
under the same station. Complete the table
in “Annex 4 - Table 2 Frequency Data for a
Transect” on page 124.
˜˜NOTE
IF THE ALGAL CONCENTRATE IS DENSE,
count only the units included in five biggest
boxes comprised of the 4 corner boxes and
the center box. Do not vary your choice of
whether to use only the five boxes or the
entire grid, in order to avoid confusion.
8.6.6 Determination of species diversity
1. Use the Shannon Weiner formula in computing
for the diversity index H’ per station as
shown below.
H’ = - Ʃ (pi logN pi)
where:
H’ = diversity index,
pi = relative abundance,
N = overall total of abundances.
2. Fill out all columns in table (“Annex 4 - Table 2
Frequency Data for a Transect” on page 124).
3. Enter the H’ values for each station.
8.6.7 Biomass determination
THE METHOD DESCRIBED BELOW IS THE
chlorophyll a (Chl a) method that will be done
on site for the preparation of the filtered algae for
transport to an analytical laboratory where the
spectrophotometric measurement of pigment will
be done.
Prior to the field work, prepare a sufficient
amount of 90% acetone for the expected number
of stations, each with three replicate areas (vials).
In each vial, dispense 5 ml of 90% and replace
screw cap. Label each vial to reflect place, date,
station number, Replicate area number, and initials
of investigator.
ööSample collection
a. Rinse a clean, acid-washed 1-L sampling bottle
three times and get a grab sample of water by
dipping this below the surface until it is filled.
b. Line the stage of a portable filtration apparatus
with the right size microfiber filter or membrane
filter.
c. Fill the chamber of the filtration apparatus with
500 ml lake or river water. (Reduce volume as
necessary, if the algal populations are dens).
d. Manually pump the apparatus until the dripping
stops. .
e. With a pair of forceps, lift the membrane from
the stage and insert this in a vial wrapped with
carbon paper.
f. Label the vial and place in an ice box with ice,
and cover the box for transport to the laboratory.
g. Transport the steeped samples in an ice box with
ice to the analytical laboratory.
ööChlorophyll a measurement
THE METHODS DISCUSSED BELOW ARE FOR
determining the amount of chlorophyll in the algae
that were influenced to grow by water quality. The
first method yields the amount of chlorophyll a
in algae as an indicator or an indirect measure of
algal biomass. This method excludes animals and
debris that do not by nature contain chlorophyll.
It is a more tedious way of determination but its
common use enables comparison of results with
those obtained by others. The complete method is
69 |
given, so that even chl b and c can be computed
for. These two pigments, however, are not needed
in this work on freshwater wetlands. This method
necessitates partnership with academe where
the needed equipment, like spectrophotometer
and oven would be found. With this method, it
is essential for the DENR staff to know how to
prepare samples before these are transported to
the concerned laboratory for spectrophotometric
analysis.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Chlorophyll
a, b, and c (Trichromatic Method)
THIS METHOD IS THE SAME STANDARD
method which appears in the book, Standard
Methods for the Analysis of Water and Wastewater,
1974 edition. If samples cannot be immediately
analyzed, they may be kept frozen in the dark for as
long as 30 days.
Procedure:
• Centrifuge to concentrate the sample or
directly filter through glass fiber filter.
• Add 0.2 ml magnesium carbonate suspension
before centrifuging or during the final phase
of filtering. Freeze samples in the dark. 32.
Place sample in mortar and cover with 2 -3
ml aqueous acetone solution, and pound
gently to macerate the filter and disrupt the
cells to extract the chlorophyll.
• Transfer the sample to a screw-cap centrifuge
tube and bring the volume up to 5 ml with
aqueous acetone solution. Do not excessively
dilute the pigments.
• Steep the samples overnight at 4oC (before
water turns into ice) in the dark.
• Clarify the extract by centrifuging in closed
tubes for 20 min at 500 G. Decant the
clarified extract into a clean calibrated 15-ml
screw-cap centrifuge tume and measure the
total volume of the extract.
| 70
• Transfer the clear extract to a 1-cm cuvette
and determine the optical density (OD) at
750, 661, 645 and 650 nm. If the OD 663 is
less than 0.2, select longer cuvettes.
• Calculation: Use the OD readings at 663,
645, and 610 nm for the determination
of Chl a, bb, and c, respectively. The OD
reading at 750 nm serves as a correction
for turbidity. Subtract this reading from
each of the pigment OD values of the
other wavelengths before they are used in
the equations. The OD of the extract at
750 nm is very sensitive to changes in the
acetone to water water roportions, thus, it
is essential to adhere rigidly to the 90 parts
acetone to 10 parts (v/v) formula for pigment
extraction. Use of the 750 nm reading may
be avoided if the pigment solution is cleared
by centrifugation for 20 min at 500G and the
light path is limited to 1 cm.
Calculations:
a. Calculate the concentrations of the chlorophylls
by inserting the corrected ODs in the following
equations:
1). 𝐶𝑎 = 11.64𝐷663 − 2.16𝐷645 + 0.10𝐷630
2). 𝐶𝑏 = 20.97𝐷645 − 3.94𝐷645 − 3.66𝐷630
3). 𝐶𝑐 = 54.22𝐷630 − 14.81𝐷645 − 5.53𝐷630
where :
Ca, Cb, and Cc = concentrations of chlorophyll a,
b, and c respectively, in the extract, mg/l and
D663, D645, D630 = optical densities (with a 1-cm
light path) at respective wavelengths.
b. When the concentration of pigment in the
extract has been determined, calculate the
amount of pigment per unit volume of sample
as follows:
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
Direct Calculation of Algal Biomass
Since chlorophyll a is an algal biomass indicator,
one might want to determine not the indicator but
the value of biomass itself. The general assumption
is: chlorophyll a = .5 % of the dry weight organic
matter (i.e., ash-free weight). Thus, algal biomass
(ug/L) equals chlorophyll a content times a factor
of 67.
Algal Biomass by Gravimetric Method
THIS METHOD DETERMINES THE ASH-FREE
dry weight to represent the algal biomass. It carries
an error owing to the presence of silt and organic
debris in the sample.
Procedure:
• Tare a sufficient number of porcelain crucibles
for all stations.
• Place 100 mg of wet concentrated
phytoplankton sample in each crucible, and
dry in an oven at 105oC for 24 hrs.
• Get the dry weights of the samples. Record.
• Ignite the dried samples at 500oC for 1 hr.
Cool and re-wet the ash in each crucible with
distilled water.
• Bring each sample to constant weight at
105oC. (Rewetting is done to restore the
water of hydration of clays and other minerals
in the sample. This may amount to 10% of
the weight lost during incineration).
• Record the ash-free weight of each sample.
The difference between the dry weight in letter
c in the above, and the ash-free dry weight is
the ash content of the sample. This represents
50% or more of the dry weight in the
phytoplankton sample when this comprises
of many diatoms. (The determination of the
portion represented by diatoms is done by
microscopic examination). Otherwise, the
ash content is only 5% of the dry weight.
8.7 Data Analysis And Interpretation
Of The Results
IF YOUR SET OF DATA IS THE FIRST TO BE
generated for the sampling station, then consider it
as the baseline information for that station. Repeat
the determination on a monthly basis or as often
as the physico- chemical team will collect water
samples.
8.7.1 Interpretation of Results
ööPercent (%) Class representation and
species composition (species richness)
IF THE DATA SET IN THE TABLE IS THE
baseline, compare the stations based on counts
of species represented. The species richness per
station equals the total number of species counted
in that station. Determine the percent class
representation per station. Then determine the
number of species representatives per algal class.
Compare the stations based on the algal class with
the most number of representatives, i.e., the class
with the highest species richness. A high species
richness of the class Cyanophyceae could mean an
abundance of phosphorus over nitrogen, that is,
the N:P ratio is low. Many blue-green algae have
the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and so they
thrive when phosphorus is plentiful. Dominance
of euglenophytes often means richness in organic
matter while that of diatoms means an abundance
of silicon. Presence of numerous green algae could
mean a lot of things, but usually, species richness in
this group is indicative of relatively lower nutrient
levels.
71 |
 Relate the observed species richness of the
station with the results of physico-chemical
analysis. Note the relationship of change in %
class composition with that of algal biomass (Chl
a). Estimate the approximate percentage of the
taxon that is primarily responsible for the greatest
amount of biomass observed, and explain the
implication of this. Blue-green algal dominance
in their contribution to biomass usually implies
eutrophication. Changes undergone by the blue-
green algal group must be emphasized because from
this group come the common algal bloom formers.
Examine any possible relationship of this
dominance with fishery species composition or
performance or water use. If the dominant species
is a blue-green alga, determine its potential in
forming an algal bloom. The genera with a good
potential are the Microcystis, Aphanizomenon and
Anabaena. Algal blooms indicate eutrophication.
Compare the value of H’ among stations. The
higher the value of the index, the higher is the
species diversity. A high species diversity means that
all species in the algal community have relatively
equal chances of being included in a random sample
due to their more or less similar abundances. This
makes for a healthy aquatic ecosystem. A low H’
value may mean one of the species tends to be
dominant. An algal bloom former is an example.
Note the change undergone in terms of species
diversity over time.
Compare the mean Chl a values obtained per
station with the amount of Chl a corresponding to
the trophic status of freshwaters as shown in “Table
27 Trophic status of freshwaters” on page 73
If a management strategy has been implemented
to improve water quality, take note of the time of
its implementation and note any change in the
proportions of classes, putting emphasis on any
change in the major groups or taxa represented.
Reducing the N:P ratio is a strategy to control algal
blooms. The effects of this strategy is to diminish
| 72
the growth of blue-green algae.
See “Table 28 Levels of effort expected of the
cooperating partners concerning the biological
assessment and monitoring of water quality” on
page 73 for levels of effort.
8.7.2 Development of Recommendations
The following must be taken into consideration
when designing possible recommendations based
on the interplay of phytoplankton and physico-
chemical conditions:
1. In the tropics, water quality control usually
emphasizes controlling nitrogen input. Determine
if such is the case in the body of water under study.
If so, then the aim of management must be to
control nitrogen input and lower the N:P ratio.
2. Water quality improvement is reflected in a
lower N:P ratio and reduced the importance of
blue- green algae algal biomass formation resulting
in a change from eutrophic to mesotrophic.
3. If P is the suspected cause of the water quality
problem and no direct measurement of P is possible
at the sources, then regulation of P input through
control of supplemental feeding, fish stocking, and
prohibition of human dwellings extending over the
water would be another step at nutrient control
input to prevent algal blooms.
9. Aquatic Macrophytes
AQUATIC MACROPHYTES ARE LARGE AQUATIC
plants which include mosses, liverworts, larger
algae and vascular plants (Aguilar 1997, Aguilar,
et al 1990, Aguilar and Buot 2004). It includes
plants that grow on the margins of lakes, with roots
reaching down to the capillary zone overlaying the
water table.
They are commonly found in the littoral zone,
or in deep portions of lakes and along river banks,
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 27 Trophic status of freshwaters

CHL A RANGE IN CONCENTRATION (UG/L) TROPHIC STATE
0 – 2.6 Oligotrophic
2.6 - 20 Mesotrophic
20 - 56 Eutrophic
56 - 155 Hypereutrophic

Table 28 Levels of effort expected of the cooperating part-

ners concerning the biological assessment and monitoring
of water quality
WETLAND LEVEL OF EFFORT
COMPONENT EXPERTS/HEIS DENR/NGAS LGUS, POS ASSUMPTIONS
Assessment
Ocular examination 1 manday 1 manday 1 manday Per site
Data Review and evaluation 2 mandays 2 mandays 1 manday Per site

Monitoring
Sample collection Water 2 mandays audit of 1 man-day/ 2 man-days/ Per site
Quality (Water temperature, monitoring team month yr (parallel test
DO, pH, Secchi disk and review of results w/ DENR)
transparency, TN, TP. per site per yr
Chl a)*

Microscopic examination for 2 mandays/mo. audit 2 mandays 4 mandays/yr Per site

identification and quantitative of monitoring team /month
determination and review of results

Chl a sample preparation 1 manday/month 0.5 Zero Per site

before submission for spectrophotometric manday/ mandays/yr
spectrophotometric analysis by Water month
analysis Quality Laboratory

Data organization 2 mandays audit of 2 mandays/ 1 manday/yr Per site

monitoring team and month
review of results per
site per year

73 |
ponds, irrigation canals, reservoirs and paddy fields.
In these places, the representatives belong to several
species of unrelated families of dicots, monocots,
and ferns.
Generally, aquatic macrophytes can be divided
into two main groups:
1. Attached: Includes the emergents, floating-
leaved, and the submersed/submerged.
2. Unattached: Free floating. Emergents are rooted
but emerge at or above the water surface. Floating-
leaved macrophytes are those species which are
usually attached, but display their leaves on the
water surface. Submersed plants stay under water.
A periodic assessment and monitoring of aquatic
macrophyte species biodiversity and expanse of
macrophyte beds is an essential input to wetlands
management decision-making. This section will
help the user to:
1. Establish monitoring stations and sampling sites
based on specific criteria.
2. Assess aquatic macrophyte community structure
and dynamics.
3. Collect voucher specimens of identified and to be
identified aquatic macrophytes for further 
study.
4. Correlate the state of the aquatic ecosystem
in relation to the overall scenario of the
surrounding 
vegetation.
5. Use the results of macrophyte biodiversity
assessment as basis for the design
of 
recommendations for management’s decision-
making regarding the wetland under consideration.
ÞÞCHARACTERISTICS OF AQUATIC
MACROPHYTES
• They are primary producers in lakes and
rivers - they sustain other groups of living
organisms. They may serve as habitat for
those organisms living in the phyllosphere,
| 74
or that space where organisms are provided
shelter and breeding places.
• Aquatic macrophytes in the wetland
ecosystem serve as soil stabilizer, as
components of nutrient cycling, agents of
water purification, and as source of food for
terrestrial organisms, e.g., cattle feed (Buot
1994, Buot and Castillo 2004, Montjii 1991,
Payne 1986, Soerjani 1986, Quimio et al
1990).
• Their remains serve as mulch, green
manure, and are sometimes processed into
paper pulp and handicrafts.
• They are sources of chemicals and materials
used in traditional ceremonies. Some are
cultivated as ornamentals in varied forms,
adding a touch of beauty and serenity to an
aquatic landscape (Soerjani 1986).
• Though they are an integral part of the
natural ecosystem, they can seriously interfere
with water use and become noxious where
too abundant.
Some of the problems associated with dense
infestation are:
1. Suppressing growth of desirable plants.
2. Creating favorable habitat for growth and
development of disease-carrying organisms.
3. Promoting too much water loss via
evapotranspiration.
4. Interfering with fish harvesting.
5. Posing socio economic limits to area development
(Montjii 1991, Payne 1986, Soerjani 1986).

Reconnaissance Survey
Analysis and Interpretation
of Data
Making Conclusion and
Recommendations
to Decision Makers
Figure 38. Flowchart of methods involved in aquatic macrophytes assessment
9.1 Flowchart of Methodology
FIGURE 39 SHOWS THE SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM
on how to carry out Aquatic Macrophytes
Assessment (see Figure 38)
9.2 Materials, Equipment, Software
and Costing
TABLE 29 ARE THE LIST AND COST OF
materials, equipment and software required
in implementation of Aquatic Macrophytes
Assessment (“Table 29 Materials and equipment
needed for aquatic macrophytes assessment and
monitoring” on page 76).
9.3 Suggested Partnerships
We can collaborate with a number of state
universities near the body of wetlands, NGOs, POs
and LGUs.
WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
Selection of 3-5 Replicate or
Sub-stations based on the
Establishment of at least
Heterogeneity of Species
3 Primary Stations
Present and their
Distribution Patterns
Performing Line Intercept
Stations and Collections Technique in each
of Specimens Substations within the
Primary
9.4 Matrix of Parameters to be
Monitored
“Table 30 Parameters for aquatic macrophytes
biodiversity level monitoring” on page 76 shows
the parameters for aquatic macrophytes biodiversity
level monitoring.
9.5 Steps Towards A Permanent
Monitoring Plot/station
9.5.1 Preliminary Steps
1. Do a reconnaissance survey to get an overall
picture of the situation in the area.
2. Maintain the primary stations (at least three)
identified by the fisheries team for the purpose of
75 |
Table 29 Materials and equipment needed for aquatic
macrophytes assessment and monitoring
MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT ESTIMATED
AND SOFTWARE UNIT PRICE
GPS pcs Php 20,000
Digital Camera pcs Php 10,000
Tape measure, or meter pcs Php 60
stick or foot rule
Record Book/Data Sheets pcs Php 50
Plastic bags for specimens pack pcs Php 200
Straws 10 m long marked at 1-m interval pcs Php 200
A pair of herbarium pressers (size of a folded newspaper 2 pcs Php 500
made of wooden material)
Herbarium sheets pcs Php50
Dryer (Improvised dryer will do. It will pcs Php 300
be a rectangle box (1 x 0.5 sqm)

Table 30 Parameters for aquatic macrophytes biodiversity

level monitoring
PARAMETERS LOCATION FREQUENCY OF PROCEDURES/METHODS
MONITORING
1. Species composition All species under Every June and December Consider all species
the line in all traversed by the line
designated stations
2.Species over Distance occupied Every June and December Using tape measure of foot
by the species rule or meter stick measure
under the line in all distance of the area covered by
designated stations the canopy of the individual
species

3. Frequency of Species occurring Every June and December Count the number of occur-
occurrence or within the intervals rences of a species (regardless
Frequency Value (FV) of the line transect in of the number of individuals)
all designated stations in all intervals. FV = number
of occurrences/number
of intervals
4.Relative Species occurring Every June and December RF= FV of a species/ total
frequency (RF) within the intervals FV for all intervals
of the line transect in
all designated stations
5.Some important All designated Every June and December Observing around the vicinities
disturbances and stations
significant land uses

| 76

Interval 1 (usually 1m)
Interval 2
Take note of the area
Decide on the length of line and number of
lines to be investigated
All plants on the line will be samples
Identify all species per interval
Figure 39. An Illustration of a line transect or line intercept method with a 3-meter
line at an interval of 1 meter
complementation of data.
3. At each station choose 3-5 replicate or sub-
stations based on the heterogeneity of species
present and their distribution pattern.
9.5.2 Establishment of monitoring sites
1. Get a 10-m long rope and mark with a Pentel
pen 1-m interval along its entire length (Figure 39).
This will serve as your transect line.
2. Set up the transect line in a sub-station as
follows: Tie one end of the rope to a wooden or
bamboo or steel pole. Drive the pole into the soil
at the waterline. Extend the rope to towards open
water perpendicular to the shoreline. Tie the other
end of the line to another pole, and drive into
the sediment securing it in position with rocks or
stones.
3. Record the geographic coordinates and geotag
the replicate or sub-stations.
WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
Line intercept
Interval 3
4. Repeat the above procedure at each sub-station.
Line Transect or Line Intercept is a convenient
technique for sampling low-statured vegetation,
especially in grasslands and in wetlands including
swamps and marshes. The technique can yield
good data on species composition frequency and
dominance. It is the best technique for gathering
and monitoring time series data, and is preferred
to the quadrat method where the occurrence of
clumping could lead to erroneous computation of
density data. Quarterly or semi- annual monitoring
is preferable. It can be modified as the need arises
(Transect Cruise or Transect Walk).
9.6 Aquatic Macrophytes Assessment
And Monitoring Methodologies
9.6.1 Species Composition
1. Record all common names of plant species
occurring opposite every mark along the entire
length of the transect line using “Annex 4 -Table 1
77 |
Figure 40. Conducting line transect method in a grassland. Note: the use of nylon rope with marked
1-meter intervals. (Photo by IE Buot Jr).
Line Transect Data” on page 123. (Figure 40 on
page 78).
2. Take note of the following: distribution pattern
of a remarkable species together with the extent
of its areal coverage, disturbances around the area
and other important or relevant information. Enter
your observations under the Field notes column of
table in “Annex 4 -Table 1 Line Transect Data” on
page 123. Take photographs, too.
3. In the office or laboratory, supply the scientific
names and family names of the plants in your
list. Refer to the tips on how to know the correct
scientific name of a plant species.
9.6.2 Frequency of Occurrence
1. Compute for the frequency of occurrence of each
species listed to get a measure of its quantitative
importance i.e., whether dominant or not.
| 78
2. Count the number of time a species occurs along
the transect line. The value, Frequency Count (FC)
is always 1 even if there are many individuals of a
species at an interval. Record the FC in the second
column of “Annex 4 - Table 2 Frequency Data for a
Transect” on page 124.
3. Compute for the Frequency Value (FV) of
each listed species by dividing its FC by the total
number of intervals, that is 10. Enter data in the
third column of “Annex 4 - Table 2 Frequency Data
for a Transect” on page 124.
4. Finally, compute for the Relative Frequency
(RF) by dividing the FV of a species by the Total
FV (TFV), and then multiply by 100. Record data
in column 4.
5. Note the top 5 dominant species for each transect
under column 5 of “Annex 4 - Table 2 Frequency
Data for a Transect” on page 124.
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 41. A sample herbarium specimen deposited at the Plant Biology

Division Herbarium (PBDH), Institute of Biological Sciences, CAS, University of
the Philippines Los Baños (Photo by I.E. Buot, Jr.)

6. Compute for the Average RF (ARF) for a species
at a station. Sum up all the RF per species in all three
sub-stations, and then divide by the total number
of transects to get the ARF for a station. Enter data
in “Annex 4 - Table 3 Average Relative Frequency
(ARF) data for a sampling station” on page 125.
In the last column, note the top 5 dominant species
for a station. Do the same for the rest of the stations
set up in the wetland under observation.
7. Tabulate the ARF of a species for all other sub-
stations in the body of water under observation and
enter data in “Annex 4 - Table 4. A Station Average
Relative Frequency (ARF) data for a wetland area”
on page 126.
9.6.3 Correlation Analysis
USING THE SIMPLE PEARSON’S CORRELATION
from Excel, do a correlation analysis of the ARF
of a species for a station with the nutrient levels or
other physico-chemical characteristics of the water
noted by the water quality expert of the team. Do
the correlation analysis between the ARF and a
descriptor of the surrounding land use types so as
to trace the possible cause of the current state of a
wetland based on aquatic macrophyte biodiversity.
9.6.4 Identifying the Scientific Names of the
Aquatic Macrophytes
ESTABLISH THE IDENTITY OF AN UNKNOWN
specimen using any of 4 methods, namely:
1. consulting with botanical experts,
2. comparing with illustrated botanical manuals,
3. visiting a herbarium, an institution for the
collection of dried plant specimens; and
4. using botanical keys in floras which is quite

79 |
complicated for our own purpose (Zafaralla et. al,
2007).
Although a photograph may suffice for common
specimens, nothing is better than a sample of the
plant for identification. A living plant sample is
ideal, but not always possible. The sample should
have intact leaves, flower, and if possible, fruit. Its
scientific name is arrived at by comparing it with
a herbarium specimen, a properly dried plant
material (Figure 41).
9.6.5 Procedure in Collecting Plant
Specimens
A COLLECTOR OF PLANT SPECIMENS IS
required to apply for a Gratuitous Permit at the
Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) of the
DENR. The PAME and REECS can facilitate
acquisition of this permit.
1. Collect portions of branches with flowers, and if
possible, with fruits measuring around 30-40 cm
in length. Roots of grasses should be included to
facilitate identification.
2. Write pertinent information on a specimen
voucher label, a sample of which is shown in Figure
42 on page 81. Do this as you collect each
specimen because some plant features may change
when dried. Note the color of the flowers, fruits and
both surfaces of the leaves including texture. Note
also the habitat and the geographic coordinates.
3. Dry the specimens by placing the materials of
a species between folded newspapers accompanied
by the corresponding field label.
4. Mount the dried specimen on a mounting
sheet (standard size: 11.5” x 16.5”) for
convenience in handling.
9.7 Data Analysis And Interpretation
Of The Results
HIGHER FREQUENCY VALUE OF NON-NATIVE
aquatic macrophytes, indicates on-going siltation,
| 80
shoaling and decreasing aquatic ecosystem services
endangering the water body, weather is a lake, river
or swamps.
“Table 32 Aquatic macrophyte biodiversity
monitoring report” on page 81 shows Sample
Report Format and “Table 33 Quantification of
different pressures, threats, and resource- use types
in conducting biodiversity monitoring for inland
wetlands.” on page 82 shows Quantification
of different pressures, threats, and resource- use
types in conducting biodiversity monitoring for
inland wetlands. Tables included in the report are
in “Annex 4 -Table 1 Line Transect Data” on page
123.
10. Fisheries (Freshwater Lakes
And Rivers)
FISHERY RESOURCES IN BODIES OF WATER,
like freshwater wetland areas such as lakes, rivers
and creeks, should be managed properly. A primary
step to sound management is the insurance that all
fisheries information and activities are assembled
and categorized (Taconet et al. 2013).
A Fishery Inventory is a comprehensive method
of listing of fishery units with their corresponding
geographic locations. It is vital in the monitoring
and assessment of fisheries status and trends and
eventual reporting to management. It aims to to
organize, analyze, and translate information into
sound management decisions.
ÞÞESSENTIAL BASIC INFORMATION NEEDED
FOR FISHERIES INVENTORY
FISHERIES INVENTORY VARIES IN
content depending on its purpose. In the
case of fisheries biodiversity monitoring
and assessment of wetlands, only the basic
information on fisheries are essential. These
are:
Resources, Environment, and Economics Center for Studies, Inc.
WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
when dried. Note the color of the flowers, fruits and both surfaces of the leaves including
texture. Note also the habitat and the geographic coordinates.

FLORA OF THE PHILIPPINES

Common name Dialect
Collection No.: Herbarium No.
Collector
Island or Province
Locality
Habitat
Altitude above sea level meters.
Tree/ shrub/ bush/ vine/ herb
Height of plant meters.
Diameter at breast height cm
Flower
(Odor, color, etc.)
_
Fruit
_
(Kind, odor, color, etc.)
_
Special notes
_
Date , 20
Figure 41. Sample voucher or field label.

Figure
3. Dry 42. Samplebyvoucher
the specimens placing theof field oflabel
materials a species between folded newspapers
accompanied by the corresponding field label.
4. Mount the dried specimen on a mounting sheet (standard size: 11.5” x 16.5”) for

Table 31 Levels of effort among cooperating partners re-

convenience in handling.

garding aquatic macrophytes assessment and monitoring

Table 31. Levels of effort among cooperating partners regarding aquatic macrophytes assessment and
monitoring.
Component Experts/HEIs DENR/NGAs LGUs, POs Assumptions
COMPONENT
Assessments EXPERTS/HEIS DENR/NGAS
One-time LGUS, POS ASSUMPTIONS
Flora (Permanent 20 man-days 20 man-days 10 man-days Per site
Assessments
sampling sites –line One-time
transects)
Flora (Permanent
Monitoring 20 man-days 20 man-days
Periodic 10 man-days Per site
Transect Walk N/A 2 seasons every year N/A Per site
sampling sites
Flora (Establishment of –
20 man-days 40 man-days 20 man-days Per
Permanent Transect monitoring
line transects) site
Flora (Periodic 2/year (4man-day each) 2/year (40 man-day 2/year (20 Per
MONITORING
Monitoring of each) man-day monitoring PERIODIC
Transects) each) site
Transect Walk N/A 2 seasons every year
LGU (Bantay Dagat, POs, N/A Per site
Component Experts/HEIs DENR/NGAs
MAO)
Flora (Establishment
Aquatic macrophytes 2/year (20 days)
202/year
man-days
(20 days)
40 man-days
1/week (depending on
20 man-days Per monitoring
of Permanent Transect weather) site
Flora (Periodic 2/year (4man-
Inland Wetland Biological Diversity Assessment and Monitoring: How-to Guidelines 2/year (40 man-
67 2/year (20 Per monitoring
Monitoring of day each) day each) man-day site
Transects) each)
COMPONENT EXPERTS/HEIS DENR/NGAS LGU (BANTAY DAGAT, POS, MAO)
Aquatic macrophytes 2/year (20 days) 2/year (20 days) 1/week (depending on weather)

Table 32 Aquatic macrophyte biodiversity monitoring report

PARTICULARS FREQUENCY VALUE INDICATION/ RECOMMENDATION
INTERPRETATION
1.Dominant aquatic macrophytes
2. Occurrence of anthropogenic activities
3. Occurrence of natural disasters
4. Occurrence of invasive species
5. Others (please specify)

81 |
Table 33 Quantification of different pressures, threats, and
resource- use types in conducting biodiversity monitoring
for inland wetlands.
PRESSURES/ THREATS/
RESOURCE-USE
1. Nearby land use conversion
2. Establishment/
expansion of settlement/s
3. Water use
4. Pollution of water bodies
5. Anthropogenic activities in
vicinities
Pesticide use
Mining
Timber harvesting
Charcoal-making
Fish pen construction
Fishing methods/gear used
Over exploitation
| 82
QUANTIFICATION*
• Areal coverage of geo-referenced expansion site
• Areal coverage of species of plants damaged
• Revenue loss from biodiversity sacrificed
• Number of incidences
• Number of houses established in geo-referenced
area covered within time of occurrence
• Density of identified important / significant
species damaged per identified location
• Approximate cost of biodiversity damaged / lost
• Number of incidences
• Estimated rate of solid waste generation
• Estimated BOD loading of water bodies
• Number of households using water for domestic,
livestock, agriculture purposes
• Number of farmers using irrigation water for crop production
• Frequency of observation of waste dumping
• Concentration of identified chemical pollutant(s)
compared with recommended safe limit
• Secchi disk transparency
• Estimated volume of the kinds of floating solid wastes
• Change in water temperature
• Number of household using water bodies as wastewater effluent disposal
• Number of farmers using herbicide, pesticide and
fertilizer in terms of weight, volume and season
• Number of incidences
• -Estimated area of geo-referenced place of application / activity/
• mining
• Frequency of use of known volume of pesticide
• Waste generation rate (solid, liquid and gas)
• Species and quantity of vegetation damaged
• Estimated area of geo-referenced location of activity
• Number of units constructed
• Number of sacks, charcoal klin (new or old)
• Quantity of identified fish species to be cultured
• Number of users of each method / gear and location
• Fish species caught and daily catch / gear
• Number and types of boat, fishing gear and
frequency of fishing per unit of time
• Waste generation rate
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 33 Quantification of different pressures, threats, and

resource- use types in conducting biodiversity monitoring
for inland wetlands. (cont.)
PRESSURES/ THREATS/
RESOURCE-USE
6. Sedimentation and
eutrophication
7. Occurrence of
natural disaster
• typhoon,
• flooding,
• lake overturn (kanuba)
• sulfur upwelling, etc)
• harmful algal
blooms (HABs)
8. Invasive wildlife
species and plants
QUANTIFICATION*
• Area covered and depth of sediments present
• Number of natural stream bank erosion
• Number of miners that use water bodies
• Estimated volume of landslide in m3
• Site specific nutrient (Total nitrogen and total phosphorus
concentrations compared with standards in water bodies
• Area covered by of Isoetes population damaged
• Secchi disk transparency
• Weight of chlorophyll a
• Density of phytoplankton
• Number of incidences
• Areal extent and location of damage
• Weight of fish lost
• Estimate of economic loss in Php
• Areal extent and frequency of fish kill
• List of species of dead fish
• List of species of fish abnormally swimming ashore
• Estimate of economic loss (Php) from fish kill
• Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration
• Density of each identified invasive species
• Change in density / areal coverage per year
• Areal coverage based on GPS per year
• Changes in density/areal coverage of
outcompeted identified species / year
• Estimate of lumber sacrificed
• Abundance of emergent macrophytes and invasive
species found in good quality wetland habitat

* Determined from line transect method or its modification (transect cruise or walk) as necessary. Frequency
of observations/occurrences pertain to the specified sampling area. Data to be gathered through direct
observation, key Informant Interview or from secondary data from LGU documentation.

1. Name of the inland wetland, its 4. Type of production system (small-scale

coordinates, the names and coordinates of and commercial)
the surrounding lakeshore municipalities and
barangays. 5. Fishing boat (type and number)

2. Name and coordinates of fishing grounds 6. Fishing gear (type and number)

3. Means of production (capture, aquaculture) 7. Catch (volume of catch and species

caught)
83 |
 THE OUTPUT OF THIS INVENTORY IS AN additional stations selected on the basis of the
Annual Fisheries Inventory Report. It is appearance of unusual phenomena, like fish
updated annually emphasizing fisheries status kill or lake overturn. Updating can be done
and trends. annually.

­­FISHERIES RESOURCE MAPPING ­­FISH CATCH MONITORING

FISHERIES RESOURCE MAPPING IS A FISH CATCH MONITORING IS A

method of collating and plotting information systematic and science-based method for
on the occurrence, distribution, access routes gathering information on the status, trends,
and use of fishery resources within the and exploitation of the fishery resources in
lakeshore community of inland wetland areas inland wetland areas (NSAP 2015).
(FAO 2015).
• It involves a standardized collection of fish
• It is a participatory approach involving catch data in the identified landing sites.
members of the community that help
• It aims to provide reliable fisheries data
identify, locate, and classify past and present
on which to base policy recommendations
resource occurrence, distribution, use, tenure,
regarding the conservation and management
and access.
of the inland wetland areas.
• The generated maps contain information
• This method is applicable to a variety of
on the fishery resources (fish species,
aquatic organisms including fish, crustaceans,
invertebrates, etc.), resource uses (open water
mollusks, etc.
fishing, aquaculture, eco-tourism, and reserve
areas); priority threatened species; invasive
• It enables determination of the seasonal
alien species including issues and threats.
distribution, relative abundance, size, and
species composition of the freshwater fishery
• The above information types are validated
resources in each fishing ground.
on the ground and are mapped out using
GPS.
SPECIFIC INFORMATION GATHERED:
• Critical areas known for illegal fishing,
1. Types of gear and boat operating.
pollution, siltation, etc., are also delimited
and mapped. 2. Fish landing sites and fishing ground.

THESE RESOURCE MAPS ESSENTIAL 3. Catch and species composition classified

for planning, monitoring, and decision- as endemic, introduced and invasive.
making. They are important guides in the
process of stratification where permanent and 4. Production estimates.
secondary sampling stations will be selected.
5. Catch per unit effort.
PRIMARY STATIONS ARE FOR REGULAR
monitoring; while secondary stations are 10.1 Flowchart of Methodology

| 84
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Fisheries Inventory Fisheries Resource Mapping Fish Catch Monitoring

- Orientation/training enumerators
- Secondary data collection
- Inventory survey
- Data analysis and reporting
- Annual Fisheries Inventory Report
- Orientation/training enumerators
- Orientation/training enumerators
- Participatory Fisheries Resource
- Fish Landed Catch Survey
Mapping
- Fish length monitoring survey
- Ground Truthing/Validation
- Data analysis and reporting
- Generate GIS maps
- Annual Report on the Status
- Data analysis and reporting
of Fisheries
- Fisheries Resource Maps

Figure 43. Flowchart of fisheries biodiversity monitoring methodology

The three (3) methods in monitoring fisheries
biodiversity in wetlands are 1) Fisheries Inventory,
2) Fisheries Resource Mapping and 3) Fish Catch
Monitoring. Figure 43 on page 85 shows the
schematic diagram on how to undertake the said
methods.
10.2 Materials, Equipment, Software
and Costing
inventory, 2) fisheries resource mapping and 3)
fish catch monitoring. The first 2 methods will be
done once a year and all wetland barangays must
be included. consider On the other hand, the fish
catch monitoring which is to be done monthly,
must establish a permanent monitoring stations
following the given criteria:
a. location fish landing sites,

“Table 34 Material and equipment needed b. number of fisherfolk in the area,

for fisheries assessment and monitoring” on page
86 are the list and cost of materials, equipment
and software needed in carrying out the fisheries
biodiversity monitoring.
10.3 Suggested Partnership
The essential partners should come from the
academe, government agencies, non-government
agencies and local government units (“Table
35 Partners in conducting fisheries biodiversity
monitoring” on page 87).
10.4 Parameters for Fisheries
Biodiversity Assessment and
Monitoring
See “Table 36 Parameters for fisheries biodiversity
assessment and monitoring” on page 87.
10.5 Steps Towards Establishment of a
Permanent Monitoring Plot/Station
Fisheries biodiversity monitoring in protected
wetlands identified 3 methods, namely 1) fisheries
c. number of fishing boat and gear,
d. type of habitats present categorized as disturbed
and undisturbed; and
e. priority species classified into endemic, alien and
threatened species.
The total landing sites must be determined and
categorized into major and minor landing sites.
About 10% of the total major and minor landing
sites must be considered in establishing permanent
monitoring stations.
10.6 Fisheries Assessment and
Monitoring Methodologies
10.6.1 Fisheries Inventory
1. The Fisheries Inventory will be conducted
by one data analyst and two enumerators. They
must undergo orientation and training on how to
conduct the survey and fill outfs the survey forms
(“Annex 5 - Table 1. Annual Fisherfolk Inventory”
on page 127).

85 |
Table 34 Material and equipment needed for fisheries
assessment and monitoring
MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT ESTIMATED
AND SOFTWARE UNIT PRICE
FISHERIES INVENTORY
1. Map of lake or river Topographic bathymetric 1 pc Php 500
2. Survey forms Bond papers 1 rim Php 500
3. Ball pen, pencil, eraser, scissors Panda,mongol 1 box Php 200
4. GPS Garmin 1 pc Php 10,000
5. Laptop computer Intelcore processor, 4GB memory 1 pc Php 30,000
with Microsoft excel
FISHERIES RESOURCE MAPPING
1. Manila paper Standard manila paper 10 pc Php 100
2. Pentel pen, ball Panda,mongol 1 box Php 200
pen,pencil, scissors
3. Icons for the resources and uses Colored papers and pictures 10 pc Php 100
4. Meta cards Cartolina assorted colors 5 pc Php 100
5. Masking tape Double adhesive 2 pc Php 100
FISH CATCH MONITORING
1. Map of lake/ river Grid map 2 pc Php 100
2. Survey forms Bond papers 1 rim Php 500
3. Fish/ Invertebrate Laminated colored paper 10 pcs Php 200
Identification Guide
4. Ruler and caliper Standard 2 pcs Php 1,000
5. Weighing scale 1 kg and 5 kg capacity 2 pcs Php 1,000
6. Fish board Wooden made 2 pcs Php 100
7. Fish samples Top commercially important species 10 kg Php 2,000

8. Sample bottles Wide mouth, big, glass 50 pcs Php 1,000

9. Desktop or laptop Intelcore processor, 4GB memory 1 pc Php 30,000

10. Calculator Intelcore processor, 4GB 1 pc Php 30,000

memory

2. A Focused Group Discussion (FGD) should be inventory survey starts.

done to collect secondary data on fisheries from
the local government offices (barangay, municipal
and provincial) such as the Agriculture Office,
Environment and Natural Resources Office, and
the Planning and Development Office of both the
municipal and provincial levels. The enumerators
should collect the data before the actual fisheries
3. The secondary data collected should be collated
and encoded and then designated as the Baseline
Data for the year of collection.
4. After the secondary data collection, the
enumerators should proceed to conduct the
fisheries inventory in all barangays using “Annex

| 86
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 35 Partners in conducting fisheries biodiversity

monitoring
ACADEME GOVERNMENT LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS NON-GOVERNMENT
OFFICES
State University DENR Provincial and Municipal Tanggol Kalikasan
Colleges (UP, PUP, Biodiversity Management Environment and Pusod Inc.
SUCs, etc.) Bureau (BMB) Natural Resource Office Fisherfolk
Private School Regional Offices (PENRO,MENRO) Organizations
Universities (UST, Protected Area Provincial and Municipal
Ateneo,La Salle, etc.) Superintendent Agriculture Office
Office (PASuO) (PAO,MAO)
BFAR Fisheries and Aquatic
National Fisheries Resource Management
Research and Development Councils (FARMCs)
Institute (NFRDI)
Regional Offices

Table 36 Parameters for fisheries biodiversity assess-

ment and monitoring
LOCATION/
METHOD/TOOL PARAMETER SAMPLING FREQUENCY OF
STATION MONITORING
Fisheries Inventory No. fisherfolk All wetland Once a year
Focused group No. boat barangays 5 days (secondary
discussion (FGD) No. gear data collection)
Key informant Volume catch 25 days (survey)
interview (KII) Species caught
Survey No. cage operators
No.cages
Volume harvest
Species cultured
Fisheries Resource Fishery resources map All wetland Once a year
Mapping Gear and effort map barangays 1-2 days participatory
FGD Fisheries habitat map fisheries resource mapping
KII Resource use map
Issues and threats map
Fish Catch Monitoring Species composition Major and minor Quarterly
Survey Catch composition landing sites 2 days(orientation
FGD Fish production /training)
KII Catch per unit effort (CPUE)
Fish length of target species Monthly
2 x a week (survey)

87 |
Table 37 Group assignments of participants by sector
and resource maps assigned
GROUP SECTOR MAP ASSIGNED
1 Fisherfolk Fisheries resources, endemic, threatened, introduced/alien species
2 Local Officials Boat, gear, effort
3 Women, youth, senior Habitat and resource uses
4 GOs, NGOs, DENR, DA Issues and threats
5 - Table 2 Fisheries Inventory Survey Form for
Capture Fisheries” on page 128 and “Annex
5 - Table 3 Fisheries Inventory Survey Form for
Aquaculture” on page 129. All information called
for in the survey forms must be supplied.
5. A complete enumeration of fisherfolk engaged in
capture fisheries and aquaculture, fishing gear and
boat in all barangays should be done once a year
6. Collate all survey forms, encode data in excel
format and make a Fisheries Inventory Report.
10.6.2 Fisheries Resource Mapping
1. This activity should be done through the
participatory approach and by focused group
discussions (FGD). The participants of the activity
should be the representatives of all barangays from
different sectors (fisherfolk, local government units
or LGUs, people’s organizations (POs), women,
senior citizens, youth, NGOs, and GOs).
2. Assign a Moderator to facilitate the activity. At
the start, he/she should describe the purpose and
the scope of the mapping exercise to be undertaken.
3. The moderator shall present the objectives as
follows:
a. to identify and map out the fishery resources
of the freshwater wetland and classify these as
follows: endemic, introduced, invasive alien,
and threatened species taking care to indicate
| 88
their place of occurrence and habitat in the map;
b. to identify, quantify and locate the boat and
gear;
c. to identify and locate different habitats;
d. to determine the resource uses and their
locations; and
e. to identify the issues and threats to fisheries
biodiversity indicating in the map their specific
area(s) of coverage.
4. The Moderator shall explain the following
resources or features that the group needs to map
out:
a. fisheries resources, endemic, threatened,
introduced, alien species;
b. fishing boats and gear and effort;
c. habitat (seagrass areas, sandy areas, muddy, etc.);
d. resource uses (capture fishing, aquaculture,
beach resorts, tourism, sanctuary, migration
paths, etc.); and
e. the issues and threats.
5. For efficiency, divide the participants into five
groups. Assign a group to each of the four resources
or features in “Table 37 Group assignments of
participants by sector and resource maps assigned”.
6. Instruct each group to prepare cut-out icons
representing the resources of the map they are
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Figure 44. Measurement of total length of fish

Table 38 Levels of effort among cooperating partners in the

biodiversity assessment and monitoring of fisheries.
WETLAND LEVEL OF EFFORT
COMPONENT EXPERTS/HEIS DENR/NGAS LGUS, POS ASSUMPTIONS
Assessment One-time
Fisheries 1 manday/month 2 mandays/month 4 mandays/ month Per site
or 1 manday / week
Monitoring Periodic
Fish catch 1 manday/month 2 mandays/month 4 mandays/month Per site
monitoring or o manday/week

assigned. Have each group prepare a base map on
Manila paper with size 24 x 36 inches.
7. Instruct each group to have all members
participate in map making. Landmarks, reference
points or reference lines must be indicated on the
map.
8. Require the group members to use a double sided
tape so that the icons can be stuck to the places in
the map where the resources / features are supposed
to be located. The icons made should be sufficient
to represent as many resources as are necessary.
9. After the above activities, reach group to select
a documentor. Then have a group member do the
presentation of the group’s map before the other
group members for their comments and validation.
10. The documentor will take note of the
comments and initiate finalization of the group
map after the presentation. This person shall do the
write up explaining the map with the guidance of
the group members.
11. Reproduce copies of the map sufficient for
distribution among the identified members of
the stakeholder community before whom a map
presentation will be done.
12. Note down the important comments from the
community.
13. Do a ground-truthing/ validation of the
generated resource map. Use a GPS to determine
the exact coordinates of the resources represented
by the cut-out icons. The end-result of this activity
is a GIS map showing the baseline information on
the protected area.
14. Inform the participants that resource mapping
and validation should be done once a year to keep a

89 |
record of any changes that may occur.
10.6.3 Fish Catch Monitoring
1. The Fish Catch Monitoring will be conducted
by a data analyst and enumerators. A quarterly
orientation and training will be conducted for the
enumerators and data analysts.
2. The data analyst shall be tasked to identify and
establish sampling stations based on the following
criteria:
a. location fish landing sites,
b. number of fisherfolk in the area,
c. number of fishing boat and gear,
d. type of ecosystems and habitats present
categorized as disturbed and undisturbed; and
e. priority species classified into endemic, alien and
threatened species.
3. The sampling stations must represent the major
and minor landing sites in the protected wetland.
The number of enumerators will depend on
the identified sampling/landing sites. At least 2
enumerators will be assigned per sampling/landing
site.
4. The fish catch monitoring survey must be
done during the peak fish landing time of the
day. Enumerators must be at the landing site early
before the arrival of the fishermen with their catch.
The peak fish landing time may vary during the
day.
5. Upon arrival of the fisherman, the enumerator
should quickly approach the fisherman and begin
the interview using the Catch and Effort Survey
Form (“Annex 5 - Table 4 Catch and Effort Survey
Form” on page 130).
6. Use the Fish and Invertebrates Identification
Guide to identify the species in the catch. Write
on the form the scientific/common name of the
| 90
fish and invertebrates present in the catch, like
crustaceans, mollusks, etc.
7. After the interview, seek permission from the
respondent to measure a suitable number of fish
samples of target species in his catch. Take at least
5-10 samples of the target species. Measure and
record the total length (TL) in centimeters (cm),
and weight in grams (g) of each individual fish
using the Length-Weight Form (“Annex 5 - Table 5
Length-Weight Survey Form” on page 131). The
TL is the distance from the tip of the snout to the
end of the caudal fin ray as shown in Figure 44 on
page 89.
8. Do the fish catch monitoring survey twice a
week monthly or 96 days/yr
10.7 Data Analysis and Interpretation
of the Results
10.7.4 Fishery Inventory
SECONDARY AND PRIMARY DATA GATHERED
will be encoded and analyzed using Microsoft excel.
Carry out a trend analysis and present findings in
the form of graphs and diagrams to show the status
and trends in the fisheries. Describe the status
based on fisherfolk population, number and kind
of gear, species caught and volume of catch (open
fisheries), number of fishcage operators, number
of cages and species cultured. Describe the trend
on a monthly and yearly basis. Make an Annual
Fisheries Inventory Report as shown in ”Table 39
Annual fisheries inventory” on page 91.
Compare the time series data of fisherfolk
population, number and types of fishing gear and
boat, catch and species composition, number of
operators and cages, and determine the factors
that affect the fisheries yield (Figure 45 on page
91). Relate these to the fishing pressure over
time and with development measures/regulations
that management is implementing. If needfu l of
further improvement towards a sustained resource
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 39 Annual fisheries inventory

FISHERIES INVENTORY
2015
MUNICIPALITY
NO. BOAT GEAR CATCH AQUACULTURE
FISHERFOLK NO. KIND NO. KIND VOL. SPECIES NO. NO.
CAGES OPERATORS
Agoncillo
Alitagtag
Balete
Cuenca
Total

Figure 45. Inventory of fisherfolk and boats in Taal Lake (1998-2011). Source: Mutia at al 2014

Table 40 Example of summary output of resource mapping

in Ilog-Hilabangan River
MAP 1 ECOSYSTEMS MAP 2 RESOURCE MAP 3 MAP 4 MAP 5 ISSUES
USES FISHERIES THREATENED AND THREATS
RESOURCES SPECIES
Sandy Open fishing Tilapia Butis amboinensis Quarrying
Aquatic macrophytes Aquaculture Goby Zenarchopterus Illegal fishing
Rocks and pebbles Eco-tourism Catfish dispar Use of fish poison
(boating, Janitor fish Electro fishing
swimming,etc.) Shrimps Land conversion
Fish sanctuary Crabs Solid waste
Run-off, érosion,
siltation

91 |
Figure 46. Maps generated from the participatory resource mapping and the GIS map generated after validation
conservation and protection, then present this
perception including any problem regarding
livelihood concerns, and respect of human rights
and values.
10.7.5 Fisheries Resource Mapping
OBTAIN THE FIVE MAPS EARLIER GENERATED
through the participatory approach, namely the 1)
habitat, 2) resource uses, 3) fishery resources, 4)
boat and gear; and 5) issues and threats (“Table 40
Example of summary output of resource mapping
in Ilog-Hilabangan River” on page 91). These
maps will be subjected to ground truthing to
obtain exact coordinates. These will be transformed
into GIS maps (Figure 46). Fisheries resource
mapping is a tool in the analysis of the status of
fishery resources, their distribution, habitat and
other issues and threats. Analyze the distribution
and frequency of occurrence and interpret the time
series data focusing on change and their possible
causes.
10.7.6 Fish Catch Monitoring
1. Catch and Species Composition
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THE CATCH AND EFFORT SURVEY FORM WILL
be encoded and analyzed using Micro excel. The
species composition caught by all gear types will be
listed and identified up to the species level.
The fishery resources will be categorized into
fish, invertebrates and other organisms (“Table
41 Fish biodiversity composition in Taal Lake” on
page 93). These species will be classified into
endemic, introduced and migratory species. Total
catch of each species by gear for the year will be
computed and ranked from the highest to the
lowest. A time series data of the species composition
will be generated to determine the status of the
fishery resources and explain the cause of changes
(Figure 46).
2. Production Estimates
FISH PRODUCTION WILL BE ESTIMATED BY
extrapolation. A time series data of fish production
will be computed to determine the status of
fisheries and identify the causes of changes in fish
production ( Figure 47 on page 93).
Total catch for the day (TCD) will be computed
by multiplying the total catch for the day (C) by
a raising factor (RF) equivalent to the number
sampled landings over total landings for the day.
Monthly and annual productions will be computed
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 41 Fish biodiversity composition in Taal Lake

NO. SCIENTIFIC NAME FAMILY ENGLISH NAME LOCAL NAME CLASSIFICATION
Fin Fishes
1 Sardinella tawilis Clupeidae Freshwater sardine Tawilis E
2 Oreochromis Cichlidae Nile tilapia Tilapia I
niloticus
3 Atherinomorus Atherinidae Wide-banded Guno M
lacunosus Hardyhead Silverside
4 Chanos chanos Channidae Milkfish Bangus M
43 Lates calcarifer Latidae Giant seaperch Apahap M
Crustacean
44 Macrobrachium sp. White shrimp Hipon I
45 Atya sp. Atyid prawn Apta E
46 Potamon sp. Katang
47 Macrobrachium sp. Freshwater prawn Ulang
Molluscs
48 Ciristaria plicata Freshwater clam Peras E
49 Melania blatta Suso
50 Pomacea Golden apple snail Kuhol/sihe I
canaliculata
Parus
Reptile
51 Pelodiscus sinensis Soft shelled turtle Pawikan I
52 Hydrophis semperi Seasnake Dohol E

Source: Mutia et al 2014

Resources, Environment, and Economics Center for Studies, Inc.

100% Others

90% Ayungin
Karpita
80%
Pangasius
70%
Dugong
60% Bia

50% Guno
Tilapiang arroyo
40%
Dangat
30%
Bangus
20% Maliputo

10% Kanduli
Tilapia
0%
Tawilis
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2009 2010 2011
Source: Mutia et al 2014
Figure 47. Fish species composition per year in Taal Lake (1996-2011). Source: Mutia et al 2014
Figure 46. Fish species composition per year in Taal Lake (1996-2011).

93 |
 Figure 46. Fish species composition per year in Taal Lake (1996-2011).

1800

1600

1400

1200
Harvest (mt)

1000

800

600

400

200

0
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2009 2010 2011
Year

Source: Mutia et al 2014

Figure 48. Fish production in the capture fisheries of Taal Lake (1996-20111). Source: Mutia et
al 2014 Figure 47. Fish production in the capture fisheries of Taal Lake (1996-2011).
Resources, Environment, and Economics Center for Studies, Inc.

80
70
60
50
Kg/day

Inland Wetland40
Biological Diversity Assessment and Monitoring: How-to Guidelines gill net 80

30 beach seine
20
10
0
1997 1998 1999 2000 2010 2011
Year

Source: Mutia et al 2014

Figure 49. Fish species composition per year in Taal Lake (1996-2011). Source: Mutia et al 2014
Figure 48. Catch per unit effort of gill net and beach seine in Taal Lake (1997-2011).

by raising the total catch for the day. Hereunder are 𝑻𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒉
the following computations: (𝑻𝑪𝑴) = 𝑻𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒚
Equation 1: (𝑻𝑪𝑫) × 𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 (𝑹𝑭)

𝑻𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒚 where: RF = number of days in a month /

(𝑻𝑪𝑫) = 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒚 sampled days
(𝑪) × 𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 (𝑹𝑭) Equation 2:
where: RF = number of total landing/ sampled 𝑻𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓 (𝑻𝑪𝒀)
landings Equation 2: = 𝑻𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒉

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
(𝑻𝑪𝑴) × 𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 (𝑹𝑭)
where: RF =number of months in a year /
sampled months
3. Catch per Unit Effort
Determine the catch composition from the
use of each fishing gear. The catch per unit effort
(CPUE) is a useful index for long term monitoring
of a fishery (Stamatopoulos 2002). Time series data
of CPUE provides information on the status of
the fish population and the level of fishing effort
(Figure 49 on page 94).
To compute for the CPUE, number of kilogram
of fish caught per unit effort (hours and number of
fishers) use the following formula:
Example: catch/fisher hour of tilapia by gill net
11. Wildlife/Megafauna
MEGAFAUNA REFERS TO ANIMALS THAT ARE
large enough to be seen with the naked eye. The
term “wildlife” as used in this manual pertains
to the higher classes of vertebrates (animals with
backbone): Amphibians, reptiles, birds, and
mammals. These groups of wildlife can be termed
as megafauna, in ecological terms, as they large
enough to be observed.
This section will teach the user to:
1. Determine and use an appropriate method for
making a record of megafauna within a survey area
of a hydrological unit.
2. Process data derived from the appropriate
method used.

3. Identify and describe the factors influencing
data collection.
4. Interpret data and describe the current state of
wildlife biodiversity in the survey area.
5. Develop recommendations for the protection
and conservation of megafauna within the 
surveyed
area in particular, and the hydrological unit in
general.
6. Prepare a research proposal on megafauna for the
participant to implement when he/she goes 
back
to his home base.
11.1 Flowchart of Methodology
FIGURE 50 ON PAGE 96 SHOWS THE
schematic diagram on how to carry out Megafauna
Assessment.
11.2 Materials, Equipment, Software
and Costing
“TABLE 42 MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT NEEDED
for wildlife/megafauna assessment and monitoring”
on page 97 gives the list and cost of materials,
equipment and software needed in carrying out the
megafauna assessment and monitoring.
11.3 Suggested Partnerships
The essential partners should come from
academe, LGUs, students, and wildlife enthusiasts.
11.4 Matrix of Parameters to be
Monitored
PARAMETERS FOR FISHERIES BIODIVERSITY
95 |
 Site Selection
- Species-based Transect Cruise Transect Walk
- Resource use-based

Field Diary Bird Count Bat Count

Visual Encounter
Data Analysis
Survey-Transect
and Interpretation
(VEST)

Figure 50. Flowchart of megafauna biodiversity monitoring methodology

level monitoring are shown in “Table 43 Parameters
for fisheries biodiversity level monitoring.” on page
97.
11.5 Steps Towards Establishment of a
Permanent Monitoring Plot/station
BIOLOGICALLY IMPORTANT WETLANDS IN THE
Philippines cover a vast area, ranging from 1,200
hectares in Lake Manguao (Palawan Island) to more
than 200,000 ha in Liguasan Marsh (Mindanao
Island). Given the constraints in manpower and
financial capabilities, it is practically impossible to
monitor every single hectare.
ÞÞRECOMMENDATIONS ON HOW TO SELECT
SITES FOR MONITORING
1. Intact or partially intact wetland habitats
such as marshes, swamps, flood plains, and
intertidal mudflats. 

2. Areas with congregations or colonies of
water birds or large fruit eating bats. 

3. For each municipality, areas with intact
wetlands or large congregation of water birds
or flying 
foxes.
4. Communities living in wetland habitats of
high conservation value. This can be further
subdivided into communities:
• With relatively high dependence on wetland
resources
• That are reported to over-harvest

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 42 Material and equipment needed for wildlife/mega-

fauna assessment and monitoring
MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT ESTIMATED
UNIT PRICE
Binoculars pcs P5,000
Spotting scope pcs P5,000
Watch pcs P200
Data sheet (Transect, Field Diary, pcs Php 200
Bird Count, Bat Count)
Pencil and Pen pcs Php 10
Topographic map of wetland area pcs Php 150
Click counter pcs Php 60
Notebook pcs Php 50

Table 43 Parameters for fisheries biodiversity level

monitoring.
METHOD/TOOL PARAMETER LOCATION/ SAMPLING STATION FREQUENCY OF
MONITORING
Transect Cruise Birds, Reptiles Quarterly
Transect Walk Birds, Reptiles, Quarterly
Mammals,
Amphibians
Field Diary Birds, Reptiles, Quarterly
Mammals,
Amphibians
Bird Count Birds January and July
Bat Count Bats January and July
Visual Encounter Survey- Amphibians
Transect (VEST) and Reptiles

• Known as entry/exit points of wetland
resources
• Along regular patrol routes.
11.5.1 Types of Observations for Monitoring
SINCE IT IS NOT POSSIBLE AND PRACTICAL
to monitor all species in any wetland habitat, there
is a need to prioritize which species to monitor so
that the utility of manpower and financial resources
will be more cost-efficient with meaningful results.
There is also a need to keep track of utilization
practices that can effect change in abundance of the
priority species. Monitoring resource-use can be
straightforward since the activities are recognizable.
This manual, will focus on two major types of
observations:
1. Species-based
2. Resource-use based

97 |
 Keystone species. Species on which other species in an ecosystem largely depend,
such that its removal would drastically change the ecosystem. This can also include
indicator species, the animal or plant species that can be used to infer conditions
in a particular habitat. In some instances, both keystone and indicator species are
habitat specialists. As in the case of wetland habitats, waterbirds are an ideal
example. Monitoring these species types can reveal trends in habitat health.
“KEYSTONE SPECIES” “UTILIZED SPECIES” “GLOBALLY MANDATED SPECIES” “IDENTIFIABLE SPECIES” “INVASIVE AND DISTURBANCE SPECIES”

Utilized species. These species are directly utilized as food, medicine, or as means of
livelihood; they are easily recognized by local people and the monitoring team.

CIES” “UTILIZED SPECIES” “GLOBALLY MANDATED SPECIES” “IDENTIFIABLE SPECIES” “INVASIVE AND DISTURBANCE SPECIES”

Globally-mandated species. These species are recognized as important by key

governing bodies, like the IUCN and Ramsar. Species included in the IUCN Red List
are indicative of decline in abundance, and categorized as such depending on the
severity in decline (i.e. Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable categories).
Ramsar Convention advocates the conservation and protection of waterbirds such as
ducks, egrets, and heron
CIES” “GLOBALLY MANDATED SPECIES” “IDENTIFIABLE SPECIES” “INVASIVE AND DISTURBANCE SPECIES”

Identifiable species. Species that are recognized by local people, and usually species
that are relatively large, and oftentimes used as food, or grown as pets (or even
pests in the case of wild pigs in Muslim-dominated provinces), or medicine.

SPECIES” “IDENTIFIABLE SPECIES” “INVASIVE AND DISTURBANCE SPECIES”

Invasive and disturbance species. Invasive species are not historically known to a
given area (alien species) and have managed to invade habitats and displaced (or
even consumed) native species. There are species that are associated with habitat
disturbances, their presence can be indicative of declining habitat quality.

ECIES” “INVASIVE AND DISTURBANCE SPECIES”

Figure 51. Species-based observations

11.5.1 Species-based abundance can generate meaningful trends. In the

case of invasive- and disturbance-associated species,
FIGURE 51 ON PAGE 98 SHOWS SPECIES- these do not fall under any of the remaining
based monitoring. criteria, but they may have to be included because
their presence is strongly indicative of declining
11.5.2 Resource use-based habitat health or of a potential displacement of
FIGURE 52 ON PAGE 99 SHOWS RESOURCE native species.
use-based observations. For resource uses, any type of utilization that
Selection of species for monitoring requires falls under any of the criteria should be included.
that the species should fall into as many criteria as Biodiversity in any given area will most likely
possible. In this way, the species list can be narrowed remain the same as long as no large-scale habitat
down to a low number and yet monitoring their changes or sustained species utilization takes place.

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Habitat Use. This can include conversion of wetland habitats to agricultural farming,
establishment of infrastructure (e.g. roads), or settlements; even timber harvesting
leading to deforestation.

Species Use. Hunting of wetland-associated vertebrates.

Landscape Use. Mining (small and large scale).

Exogenous Inputs. As large portions of the wetland areas are converted to farming,
there is also the danger of pesticide applications which can lead to outright reduction
in wildlife population or can have serious effects on the existing food chain (i.e.
biomagnification).

Figure 52. Resource use-based observations

Listed in “Table 44 Species and resource-use ON A TOPOGRAPHICAL MAP OF THE AREA OR

themes for monitoring as applied with suggested
criteria, and their applicable monitoring methods.”
on page 100 are the suggested species and resource
uses to monitor in inland wetland habitats.
11.6 Wildlife/Megafauna Assessment
And Monitoring Methodologies
THE METHODS PRESENTED IN THIS SECTION
are designed to monitor not only wildlife species but
also the signs of resource uses that can be directly
associated with changes in wildlife populations.
These are adapted from census methods used by
wildlife biologists in surveying and monitoring
wildlife populations.
better yet, a habitat and land-use map, select routes
which can accommodate 2-3 kilometers and will
pass through or along lake shores and river channels
with:
a. intact or partially intact wetland habitats such
as marshes, swamps, flood plains, and intertidal
mudflats
b. areas having congregations or colonies of
waterbirds or large fruit eating bats
c. wetland habitats in proximity to settlements or
used by local communities
ööEstablishment of Transect Cruise Routes

11.6.1 Transect Cruise a. At the selected 2-3 kilometer transect cruise,

mark the starting and end points with a
ööSelection of Transect Cruise Routes permanent marker or paint. Markers (paint on
large rock or mature tree) can be placed at the

99 |
Table 44 Species and resource-use themes for monitoring
as applied with suggested criteria, and their applicable
monitoring methods.
APPLICABLE
ENGLISH NAME TAXA CRITERIA TYPE KEY INFORMATION MONITORING
METHOD/S
BIRDS
Family Anatidae All species- - Anas usually found Transect Cruise,
Ducks Anas, Aythya, based criteria on shallow waters Bird Count
Dendrocygna except invasive - Diving ducks (Aythya)
on deeper waters
Ardea Same as ducks Found in dry areas and Transect Cruise,
wetland vegetation Bird Count
Herons (flood plains, mudflats,
marshes, swamps)
Feeds mainly on fish
and molluscs
Egrets Egretta Same as ducks Same as herons Transect Cruise,
Bird Count
Pandion, Keystone and Top consumer in a
Diurnal raptors Ichthyaeetus, indicator, wetland habitat Transect Cruise,
Spilornis, identifiable Bird Count
Milvus, Circus
Order Keystone and Same as herons Transect Cruise,
Waders Charadriiformes indicator, Bird Count
Globally
important
Sterna, Chlidonias Keystone and Feeds on fish Transect Cruise,
Terns indicator, Bird Count
Globally
important
Ciconia, Platalea, Example species are Transect Cruise,
Other wetland Anhinga, Globally extremely rare or have not Field Diary
birds Phalacorax, important been sighted in many years
Threskiornis
Families Can be found in forest near Transect Walk,
Forest birds Bucerotidae, Same as ducks or within wetland areas Field Diary
Columbidae, Picidae

MAMMALS
Acerodon, All species- Declining and Bat Count,
Flying foxes Desmalopex, based criteria heavily hunted Field Diary
Pteropus except invasive

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 44 (cont.)

APPLICABLE
ENGLISH NAME TAXA CRITERIA TYPE KEY INFORMATION MONITORING
METHOD/S
Small-clawed Amblonyx cinerea Keystone and Associated with rivers Transect Walk,
otter Indicator, and Field Diary
identifiable
Wild Pig Sus Same as Declining and Transect Walk,
flying foxes heavily hunted Field Diary

Deer Cervus Same as Declining and Transect Walk,

flying foxes heavily hunted Field Diary

Long-tailed Macaca fascicularis Same as Declining and Transect Walk,

macaque flying foxes heavily hunted Field Diary

Order Carnivora,
Other large Dermoptera, Same as Transect Walk,
mammals Pholidota, Primates, flying foxes Declining and Field Diary
and Family heavily hunted
Hystricidae
AMPHIBIANS
Limnonectes magnus All species- Transect Walk,
Fanged frogs species complex based criteria Declining and Field Diary
except invasive heavily hunted
Invasive species Known to consume native Transect Walk,
Cane Toad Rhinella marina and disturbance frogs, and other vertebrates Field Diary
indicator
Chorus frog Kaloula pulchra Same as cane toad Recent invasion in Transect Walk,
the Philippines Field Diary

REPTILES
All species- Transect cruise and
Sailfin Lizard Hydrosaurus based criteria Declining and walk, Field Diary
except invasive heavily hunted
Same as sailfin Transect cruise and
Monitor Lizard Varanus lizard Declining and walk, Field Diary
heavily hunted

101 |
Table 44 (cont.)
APPLICABLE
RESOURCE USE CRITERIA KEY INFORMATION MONITORING
TYPE METHOD/S
wetland conversion to rice Habitat use Decline in wetland Transect cruise and
farming (including expansion) vegetation cover walk, Field Diary
Settlement establishment Habitat use Imminent threat to Transect cruise and
and expansion wetland wildlife walk, Field Diary
Dynamite fishing Species use Fish decline; many Transect cruise and
wildlife feed on fish walk, Field Diary
Pesticide use Exogenous Biomagnification Transect cruise and
inputs walk, Field Diary
Hunting Species use Decline in wildlife abundance Transect cruise and
walk, Field Diary
Establishment of fishpens Species use Fish decline Transect cruise and
walk, Field Diary
Mining (small and large scale) Landscape Imminent threat to Transect cruise and
use wetland wildlife walk, Field Diary
Timber harvesting (e.g. Habitat use Decline in hardwood species Transect cruise and
Neonauclea- Bangkal) associated with wetland habitats walk, Field Diary

lake shore or river bank. • coordinates of start and end point,

b. Get the coordinates of these starting and end
points; plot their coordinates on a map.
c. To the extent possible, establish permanent
markers every 500 meters of the transect cruise
routes.
d. Note down the habitat types (mudflats, marsh,
swamps) and describe the condition of these
habitat types (whether intact or disturbed, and
presence of any resource extraction) every 500
meters of the transect route.
e. Note down the following data:
• transect name (can be the name of the sitio,
or baranggay where the transect is located),
• transect location (province, municipality,
barangay, sitio),
• total length,
• major habitat and condition every 500
meters, and
• date of establishment.
ööConduct of the Transect Cruise
a. Survey the Transect Cruise route using a boat
(motorized or with paddle), and sail at a low
speed. It is recommended that the two-kilometer
route be finished in two hours. This translates to
a sailing speed of 15-20 meters per minute.
b. In lakes, stay as close to the shore (at a safe
depth) so as to observe wildlife species up close.
c. In a river, the boat man during a transect cruise
should skillfully navigate over the uneven depth,
obstructing boulders, river flow speed, and in
some cases steep terrain (when sailing upstream).

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
d. Always begin the Transect Cruise between 5:30
to 6:30 in the morning and finish before 9:00
am.
e. Keep noise from observers and boat driver to
the minimum; the boat motor should be toned
down to avoid disturbance of wildlife species.
f. Record all priority species and count their
numbers.
g. Record any type of resource extraction, past and
present including its geographic coordinates/
location; number or extent of resource extracted
(e.g. estimated one hectare expansion of rice
field, or 10 pcs of logs).
h. Note down the time when each species and
resource use were observed, the habitat where
species was recorded, its behavior, part of the
route where it was recorded.
ööFrequency of monitoring, report writing, and
presentation of results
a. Monitoring should be done every three months
(quarterly).
b. Writing of monitoring report should be done
every three months (quarterly).
c. Presentation of results (together with a written
report) should be done twice a year.
11.6.2 Transect Walk
THIS METHOD IS ADAPTED FROM THE
conventional Line Transect Count which is
conducted on dry areas. The BMS Manual of 2001
prescribes the Transect Walk primarily on forested
areas. This method is also applicable to wetland
habitats accessible on foot. It is ideal for wetland
habitat types such as marshes, swamps (including
peat swamps), and mosaics of hardwood forests and
marshlands which can be situated quite far from
lake shore or re not bisected by river channels. In
this situation, a Transect Walk can be applied which
enables observance of the wetland- associated and
even forest- associated wildlife species.
The steps in selecting, establishment, and
conduct of Transect Walk is similar to that found
in the BMS Manual. This also includes the types of
data to be recorded.
Frequency of monitoring, report writing, and
presentation of results
1. Monitoring should be done every three months
(quarterly).
2. Writing of monitoring report should be done
every three months (quarterly).
3. Presentation of results (together with a written
report) should be done twice a year.
11.6.3 Field Diary
THIS METHOD IS ADAPTED FROM THE BMS
Manual. Essentially all the basic steps written in the
Manual can be applied in wetland habitats. On the
other hand, a few considerations are added.
Personnel assigned to this method should be
aware of any reports of wildlife being kept as pets,
captured by local communities or confiscated
within their area. In this case, assigned personnel
should immediately proceed to the area where the
report was made, and collect as many information
as possible (where, how and why was it caught).
Photographs and geographical coordinates should
also be taken.
Frequency of monitoring, report writing, and
presentation of results
1. Conduct of field diary method should be done
concurrent with any patrolling and other regular
activities.
2. Writing of monitoring report should be done
every month.
3. Presentation of results (together with a written
report) should be done twice a year.
103 |
11.6.4 Bird Count
THE BMS MANUAL SUPPLEMENT ON METHODS
for Counting Waterbirds can be adapted. This
method has been used in taking census and in the
monitoring of waterbird populations all over the
world. Results generated from this method has
been adapted by RAMSAR in declaring wetland
areas as globally important.
Frequency of monitoring, report writing, and
presentation of results
1. Monitoring should be done twice a year, in
January and July.
2. Writing of monitoring report should be after
bird counting (twice a year).
3. Presentation of results (together with a written
report) should be done twice a year.
11.6.5 Bat Count
1. Research
Determine if flying fox roost is present in the area
by looking into published papers and unpublished
reports, and interviewing local guides, biologists
from local universities, DENR offices, and LGU.
2. Reconnaissance
a. Determine the current roosting location by
visiting the roost site.
b. Using a binoculars, observe the bats during
departure or exits (at dusk) to determine flight
directions
c. At the roost site, locate and establish vantage
points for counting and observation.
d. Get the coordinates of the roost site.
3. Bat count
a. Direct count
• This is conducted from an observation station
with a clear view of the bat roosting area:
| 104
• Bat counting is done using binoculars if the
observer is near the roost site (less than 75
meters), or a spotting scope if the roost site
is far (>75m).
• Bat counting is done during daylight,
preferably during early morning.
• Direct counts should be made from multiple
observation stations to determine best
location for counting.
• Direct counts should be made at each
observation station for a minimum of two
days in a row.
b. Departure counts:
Counts are made when bats leave the roost site.
• Departure counts should commence at least
1 hour before dusk (5-6pm) and end when it
is too dark.
• Determine the direction and number of
flight path of bats as they leave the roost; the
number of observer teams is determined by
the number of flight paths.
• At least two teams should be stationed on
opposite sides of the roost to count bats
leaving the roost site.
• Each observation team should have at least 2
observers, who will conduct departure counts
separately.
Frequency of monitoring, report writing, and
presentation of results
1. Bat count should be done twice a year, in January
and July.
2. Report writing should be accomplished after bat
counting (twice a year).
3. Presentation of results (together with a written
report) should be done twice a year.
11.6.6 Assessment and Monitoring Methods
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
for Amphibians and Reptiles = Visual
Encounter Survey- Transect (VEST)
THIS METHOD ENTAILS A SYSTEMATIC SEARCH
of amphibians and reptiles along an established
2-2.5 kilometer transect, and done preferably at
night time. The number of individuals encountered
per transect route (over 2-2.5 kilometres) can
provide an estimate of relative abundance of
amphibian and reptile species; this method will
also provide information on species richness. This
method can also relate species richness and relative
abundance with several habitat variables such as
quality of vegetation and degree of disturbances.
In this method, the existing terrestrial Transect
Walk Route can be used. It is applicable on
wetland habitats accessible on foot. It is highly
recommended that the transects be placed on trails
that bisect areas with several wetland habitats (e.g.
areas with marshes, mudflats, and river banks).
ööSelection and Establishment of VEST routes
a. Existing terrestrial Transect Walk routes can be
selected for the establishment of this method.
b. Routes should preferably be on trails that pass
through wetland habitats such as marshes,
swamps, near flood plains, mudflats, and along
river banks.
c. Selected routes should at least be 2 kilometers
long.
d. Take note of predominant wetland habitats
present along the transect. Also indicate if forest
is present.
e. If route is not an existing Transect Walk site,
the following information and steps should be
gathered and performed:
• transect name and location
• date of establishment and total length
• marking of start and end points
• markers at every 250 meters of the route
• coordinates of start and end point, and
250-meter markers
• habitat types (mudflats, marsh, swamps) and
condition of these habitat types (whether
intact or disturbed, and presence of any
resource extraction) every 250 meters of the
transect route.
ööConduct of VEST
a. Walk the VEST route with a constant and slow
speed equaling to 250 meters per 15 minutes
(same speed as walking the terrestrial Transect
Walk method).
b. Transect should commence between 7-8 pm,
and finish before 10pm.
c. Scan the route for presence of amphibians and
reptiles. Searching can extend 5 meters on both
sides of the route. To ascertain identification, it
is recommended for the observer/s to:
• capture amphibians and reptiles
• take photographs
• using a recorder, obtain vocalization
recordings of amphibians
d. Identify the species and count the number of
individuals encountered for the whole route.
Take note of the time of observation and station
(250 meter marker) per encounter.
e. Write all observations in data sheet (data sheet
for Transect Walk can be used).
11.7 Data Analysis and Interpretation
of the Results
11.7.1 Data Organization (for all methods)
1. Write all observations in data sheet.
2. Separate observations for each monitoring
method.
105 |
Table 45 Levels of effort among cooperating partners for
megafauna assessment and monitoring.
WETLAND LEVEL OF EFFORT
COMPONENT EXPERTS/HEIS DENR/NGAS LGUS, POS ASSUMPTIONS
Assessment One-time
Amphibians 5 man-days 5 man-days 5 man-days Per sampling site
& Reptiles
Birds 5 man-days 5 man-days 5 man-days Per sampling site
Mammals 5 man-days 5 man-days 5 man-days Per sampling site
Monitoring Periodic
Field Diary and N/A Weekly; as part of If fully Per monitoring
Photo Doc regular activities of institutionalized, site
DENR/NGA staff should be part
of regular
activities/targets
Transect Cruise Every six months Every 3 months Every 3 Per transect site
and Walk (10 man-days) months; if fully
institutionalized,
should be part
of regular
activities/targets
Bat Count Every six months Every 3 months Every 3 months Per monitoring
(10 man-days) site
Bird Count Every six months Every 3 months Every 3 months Per monitoring
(10 man-days) site

3. Separate observations (together number of present.

individuals and incidences) into species-based and
resource-use based observations.
4. If monitoring has been conducted for several
quarters and multiple sampling sites, arrange the
species and resource-used based observations per
quarter and per site.
11.7.2 Data Analysis (for all methods)
4. Changes in number of species and their
abundances can be attributed to observer bias time
of recording, seasonal variation (onset of migration
period), or direct reaction to disturbances in the
sampling area due to anthropogenic activities.
5. Assess if changes in species numbers are due
to human disturbances (e.g. decreasing species
numbers with sustained or increasing observations
of human disturbances).

1. Take note if changes in numbers are present in

11.7.3 Important Data for Each Method
your monitoring data.
1. Transect Cruise, Transect Walk, and VEST
2. Take note of drastic changes or severe drops in
numbers in two successive quarters. • Species richness (number of species)
3. Take note if large-scale resource extraction is • Number of individuals per species

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

• Presence of migratory species and their • Species richness

numbers
• Presence of threatened species and their
numbers
• Presence of island or Philippine endemic
species and their numbers
• Presence and number of incidences of
resource-use extraction
• Presence of large-scale resource-extraction
• Presence of invasive species and their numbers
2. Field Diary
• Presence of threatened species and their
numbers
• Presence of island or Philippine endemic
species and their numbers
• Colony size (per species if possible)
• Hunting at bat roost
• Disturbance at bat roost
• Distance to roost of large-scale resource
extraction
• Distance to roost of nearest reported bat
hunting
11.7.4 Quantification of Threat/ Resource-Use
Extraction
QUANTIFICATION OF DIFFERENT PRESSURES,
threats, and resource- use types in conducting
biodiversity monitoring for inland wetlands.
1. Wetland conversion:

• Presence and number of incidences of • Estimated area covered by expansion

resource-use extraction
• Presence of large-scale resource-extraction
• Presence of invasive species and their numbers
• Location of abovementioned observations
3. Bird Count
• Number of incidences
2. Establishment/expansion of settlement/s:
• Number of houses established
• Total estimated area established Number of
incidences

• Species richness (number of species) 3. Dynamite fishing:

• Number of individuals per species • Number of dynamite explosions

• Presence of migratory species and their • Number of fishermen using dynamites

numbers 4. Pesticide use:
• Presence of threatened species and their • Number of containers used (specify volume)
numbers
• Number of incidences
• Presence of island or Philippine endemic
5. Hunting:
species and their numbers
• Number of heads
• Presence and number of incidences of
resource-use extraction • Number of hunters encountered Number of
traps
• Presence of large-scale resource-extraction
• Number of confiscated firearms Number of
• Presence of large congregations of waterbirds
wildlife kept as pets
4. Bat Count
107 |
6. Fishpens:
• Number of established fishpens
• Number of newly established fishpens
7. Mining:
• Number of incidences
• Estimated area covered by mining
˜˜NOTE
• Small scale- few households
• Large scale- conducted by most members of
barangay or managed by a company
8. Timber harvesting:
• Number of flitches/poles
• Number of stumps
• Number of chainsaws seen or confiscated
• Area covered by timber harvesting Number
of incidences
9. Charcoal-making:
• Number of sacks
• Number of charcoal kiln (new or old)
10. Invasive wildlife species:
• Abundance of invasive species found in good
quality wetland habitat
11.7.5 Graphical Presentation and Statistical
Analysis
EXAMINE QUANTITATIVE DATA VIS-À-VIS
multiple elements comprising the ecological
characteristics of the surveyed area that are
important in determining the distribution and
status of megafauna. Give importance to the plant
species and areas that are used as display, nesting,
and foraging areas and migratory routes of birds.
| 108
Take note of the human pressures and the extent
of these which are reported by locals as elemental
to declining populations of any group. Compare
your data with available historical data. Examine
the relationship of trends in population and
stakeholder activities, government development
plans implemented and for implementation, and
alongside governance. Engage a holistic perspective
so that the interactions of man-environment
and faunal biodiversity are put in place so that a
sustained conservation program can be achieved at
the same time that human livelihood and human
rights and values are respected.
To begin analysis, one must first organize the
monitoring data collected and should take into
consideration the possible interactions between
the results of species-based data and resource-use
data. Consider a hypothetical monitoring data
of hornbill population (“Table 46 Comparing
hornbills and selected resource-uses (hypothetical
data).” on page 109), and resource uses such as
hunting, kaingin, and in-migration. In the table
below is an example of organized tabulated data set
for the aforementioned species and resource-uses.
This tabulated data set can be represented
graphically (Figure 53 on page 110).
The given data set can be analyzed using
correlation analysis and creating a scatter-plot
(both tools are available in Excel and very easy
to use). Correlation analyses (as indicated by the
r-value) revealed that there is a very high negative
correlation between hornbill abundance and
the three types of resource use (hunting- -0.72;
kaingin- -0.78; encroachment- -0.84). This
means that high resource extraction coincided
with low hornbill abundance. This could serve as
evidence that the declining hornbill abundance in
the last three years might be related to increasing
incidences of hunting, kaingin, and in- migration.
Of course, although there is a straightforward
relationship with hunting, one must examined
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Table 46 Comparing hornbills and selected resource-uses

(hypothetical data).
YEAR _______________ LOCALITY (BARANGGAY OR MUNICIPALITY)_______________
MONITORING PERIOD HORNBILLS* RESOURCE USES**
HUNTING KAINGIN IN-MIGRATION
2015 January 10 4 3 1
March 9 4 3 1
May 9 3 2 1
July 10 4 4 1
September 8 2 3 4
November 9 2 7 3
2016 January 10 7 9 4
March 8 5 10 5
May 7 6 11 6
July 9 8 6 6
September 5 7 9 5
November 8 4 9 7
2017 January 5 8 11 8
March 4 9 11 8
May 5 10 12 9
July 7 11 8 10
September 4 9 12 14
November 3 12 13 15

*- actual or relative abundance; **- incidence

closely if hornbills are actually hunted, and that
kaingin, and encroachment are occurring where
the hornbills are. On the other hand, the fact that
these data sources are localised (gathered in the
same barangay) could point to these resource uses
as possible reason for the decline of hornbills.
In addition to scatter-plots, graphical
presentation of monitoring data can be expressed as
trends of abundance over time as indicated Figure
54 on page 110.
Using a abundance trend over time, it can be seen
in the graph that the gradual increase in incidences
of hunting, in-migration, and kaingin over the past
18 quarters has coincided with the steady decline
in hornbill abundance. As the observations for
hornbills and the three resource uses occurred over
a localized area (in just one barangay), it could be
argued that the decline hornbill abundance might
be attributed to those three resource uses.
The observers should bear in mind that the
example given above can be applied to other
monitored species as well, and that data taken from

109 |
Figure 53. Scatter-plot for hornbill abundance and selected resource-uses (a- kaingin, b- hunting, c- in-migration

Figure 54. Trends of abundance over time

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
the different monitoring methods can be used.
11.7.6 Development of Recommendations
DESIGN THE RECOMMENDATIONS SUCH THAT
the results can be factored in and contribute to a
process of completing/illuminating on the so-
called “multiple elements of the landscape mosaic”
important in determining the distribution of
birds and other megafauna in protected areas.
Emphasize how to integrate these into the action
plan for protected areas, development measures
that promote avian diversity, in particular, and
megafauna diversity, in general, (e.g. the need to
maintain native tree cover and important shrubs,
integrate new ponds, and maintain and develop
natural freshwater sources into planning designs).
Include steps that are also necessary in planning for
residential areas near parks to have those features as
would recruit sensitive nesting species.
Listed are some examples of management
recommendations that can be based from
monitoring data.
1. Report the monitoring findings to relevant
authorities such the PAMB (if a protected area),
LGU (either at the municipal or barangay level),
DENR, and other concerned government offices.
2. The office-in-charged of monitoring can lobby
for the municipal and barangay authorities to
issue ordinances in support of sustainable natural
resource utilization or if needed, outright banning
of utilization for diminishing or nationally
important species.
3. A sense of cooperation can be fostered among
concerned government agencies and NGOs. This
can be done by forging a written and notarized
agreement between offices with the goal towards
natural resource conservation and strengthening
the coordination between agencies.
4. Zones can be delineated within an area, via
a consensus among concerned agencies, where a
given set of activities are allowed (or not allowed)
and regulated. Areas with high congregations of
wildlife must be designated as a protection zone.
5. Awareness can be raised among local
communities residing within an important wetland
area of a specific conservation issue, their role in
natural resource management and conservation,
and the implications of destructive practices in
resource utilization.
6. Solicit the assistance of donor agencies and
foundations to support livelihood projects for
communities residing in important wetland areas.
The concerned management should identify
projects that are ecologically-friendly, sustainable,
and at the same time, provide a measure of profit
to communities.
7. Office staff that manages a certain important
wetland area should, from time to time, should
receive trainings or capacity development in
natural resource management. Training in species
identification, data analysis, and ecology is a must.
In addition, communities can also receive trainings
or seminars on natural resource management as
well.
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chemical Aspects
ANNEX 3. WATER QUALITY: BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS (PHYTOPLANKTON)
ANNEX 4. AQUATIC MACROPHYTES
ANNEX 5. FISHERIES BIODIVERSITY (FRESHWATER LAKES AND RIVERS)

Annex 1 – Table 1 General Climatic Classification Based on

Rainfall Characteristics, Geographic Location, and Vulnera-
bility to Drought.
RAINFALL SIX (6)MONTHS WET THREE (3) SIX (6) MONTHS DRY
DISTRIBUTION MONTHS DRY

General Rainfall Climatic Type II Climatic Type III Climatic Type I

Characteristics No dry season with a very No very pronounced Two pronounced
pronounced maximum rainy rainy period, seasons,
period from November to with a short dry dry from
February. season lasting 1-3 November to
Much of the rainfall is of the months. This type is April and wet
cyclonic and convective types intermediate from June
which occur in December and between type I and it to October.
January. There is not a single dry is resembling
month in regions where this type the first type more
of climate prevails. closely since it has a
short dry season.
Climatic Type IV
Not very Pronounced dry season; It
is also intermediate between type I
and II, resembling the second Type
more closely since it has no dry
season.
Areas Covered Climatic Type II Climatic Type III Climatic Type I
Southeastern Luzon, practically the Cagayan Valley of Western parts of the
whole of Samar, eastern Leyte and Northern Luzon, islands of
large parts of eastern Mindanao. northeastern Panay, Luzon , Mindoro,
Climatic Type IV eastern Negros, Negros,
Butanes islands, the eastern part of Central and Southern Palawan, and
northern and central Luzon, Cebu, part of the Western
Marinduque, a small portion of Northern and and southern part of
Samar, western Leyte, northern Southwestern Panay.
Cebu, small islands of Bohol,Jolo, Mindanao and a large
Basilan, eastern Mindanao and a portion of eastern
large portion of central and Palawan
western Mindanao
CLASS HIGH MEDIUM LOW
Other hydromet Monthly rainfall, temperature, Relative humidity, wind speed, etc.
baseline information

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Annex 1 – Table 2 Measurement of Lake/Pond volume:

Method 1
METHOD 1 - 1/3 (H)* (A1+A2 +√A1+A2 ) DEPTH AREA SQUARE METERS
shoreline contour 0 625 892.67
2 289 167.75
3 71 64.39
4 58 52.4
5 47 45.49
6 44 41.98
7 40 30.55
8 22 26.37
9 31 20.76
10 12 9.39
11 7 5.43
Maximum depth 12 4 1.33
1358.53
TOTAL VOLUME (CUBIC METERS) 13585262.67

Annex 1 – Table 3 Measurement of Lake/Pond volume:

Method 2

METHOD 2 - 1/2 (H) (A1+A2) DEPTH AREA SQUARE METERS

shoreline contour 0 625 914
2 289 180
3 71 64.5
4 58 52.5
5 47 45.5
6 44 42
7 40 31
8 22 26.5
9 31 21.5
Maximum depth 10 12 9.5
11 7 5.5
12 4 1.33
1393.83
TOTAL VOLUME (CUBIC METERS) 13938333.33

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Annex 1 – Table 4 Measurement of Lake/Pond Volume:
Method 3
METHOD 3 -MEAN DEPTH METHOD DEPTH AREA SQUARE METERS
shoreline contour 0 625 6250000
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Maximum depth 10
11
12
77
TOTAL VOLUME (CUBIC METERS) 6.4 13200000

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

ANNEX 6. WILDLIFE/MEGAFAUNA
Annex 2. Water Quality: Physico-chemical Aspects

Annex
Annex 2 –2Table
– 1.Table 1 SiteForm
Site Assessment Assessment Form
SITE ASSESSMENT FORM

Name of River/Stream
Sampling Station ID No.:
Distance from Previous Station: kilometer meters
Description of Flow Turbulent
Silent
Stages of Flow Upstream
Downstream
Average Width of River/Stream at Station (in meters)
Depth of River at Station (in meters):
Section 1: Section 2: Section 3: Average:

Surface Velocity (in meters):

Section 1: Section 2: Section 3: Average
Stream Flow Rate:
Nature of River Bottom: (bedrock, sand, clay, silt, gravel, with solid waste, etc.)

Bank and Riparian Vegetation: check all that applies

Weeds Reeds (tambo, etc)
Vines
River Classification: AA C
A B
B
If unclassified. Described current usage:
Source of water supply
Recreational (bathing, swimming, etc)
Agriculture, irrigation, livestock watering, etc.
Fishing (propagation &growth of aquatic resources

Proximity to common sources of contamination (attach photos)

a. Common sources b. Distance from the sources
Settlement area (residential, etc.) Within 500 meter radius
Industry (power plant, paper mills, etc. Within 1 kilometer radius
Agricultural area >1 kilometer radius
Eroded stream banks/landslides/algal growth
Specify the types of industry closest to the site:
Quarrying
Smelting
Manufacturing and processing
Accessibility to the Site:
Paved road Dirt road Private property
Bridge No access

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Annex 2 – Table 2 Water Quality Monitoring Field
Data Form
Annex 2 – Table 2. Water Quality Monitoring Field Data Form

WATER QUALITY MONITORING FIELD DATA FORM

Name of Waterbody:
Date of Sampling: Sampling Team: _
Sampling Site
Parameter
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
GPS Coordinates
Time of Sampling
Air Temperature
Cloud Cover %
Weather Condition
Visual Color of Water
Other Observation

On-Site Analysis
pH
Temperature
D.O.
Transparency*
Conductivity*

Sample for Laboratory Analysis

Parameter for Sampling Preservation

Sample Volume Container Type
Analysis Method Done

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

14. GLOSSARY
Annex 3. Water Quality: Biological Aspects (Phytoplankton)

Annex
Annex 3 –3 – 1.Table
Table Species 1 Site Assessment
Composition Form
and Abundance in Each of the Sampling Stations

SPECIES COMPOSITION AND ABUNDANCE IN EACH OF THE SAMPLING STATIONS

Place

Date:

Counts (units) per taxon

Station No.
Cyasnophyceae Chlorophyceae Bacillariophyceae Euglenophyceae Dinophyceae Xanthophyceae

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Annex 3 – Table 2 Percent Composition and Standard Devi-
ation of Phytoplankton by Algal Class in Samples Collected

PERCENT COMPOSITION AND STANDARD DEVIATION OF PHYTOPLANKTON

BY ALGAL CLASS IN SAMPLES COLLECTED
Place

Date:

Percent of algal units representing an algal class

Station Cyasnophyceae Chlorophyceae Bacillariophyceae Euglenophyceae Dinophyceae Xanthophyceae

No.

Station
No. 1

Station
No. 2

Station
No. 3

Station
No 4

Station
No. 5

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Annex 4. Aquatic Macrophytes

Annex 44 -Table
Annex -Table 1. Line1 LineData.Transect Data
Transect

LINE TRANSECT DATA

Name of Wetland: _ Location/ Address:

Station #: Transect #: Interval #:
Monitoring period: Quarter: _Date:

Species
Scientific Family Estimated area Field notes (e.g, disturbances,
common
name name covered (sq.m.) economic importance, etc.)
name

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Annex
Annex 4 4 - 2.Table
-Table 2 Data
Frequency Frequency
for a Transect. Data for a Transect

FREQUENCY DATA

Name of Wetland: Location/ Address: _

Station #: Transect #:
Monitoring period: Quarter: Date: _

Relative Remarks
Family/Scientific name Frequency Frequency
frequency (dominant, rare,
(arranged alphabetically) count (FC) value (FV)
(RF) use)

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Annex 4 - Table 3 Average Relative Frequency (ARF) data

for a sampling station
Annex 4 -Table 3. Average Relative Frequency (ARF) data for a sampling station.

AVERAGE RELATIVE FREQUENCY (ARF) DATA

Name of Wetland: _ Location/ Address:

Station #:
Monitoring period: Quarter: Date:

Transect Transect Transect Transect Transect

Family/Scientific
1 2 3 4 5 ARF Remarks
name
(Sub- (Sub- (Sub- Sub- (Sub- for the (dominance,
(arranged
station station station station station station etc)
alphabetically)
1) 2) 3) 4) 5)

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Annex 4 - Table 4. A Station Average Relative Frequency
(ARF) data for a wetland area
Annex 4 -Table 4. A Station Average Relative Frequency (ARF) data for a wetland area.

Name of Wetland: Location/ Address:

Monitoring period: Quarter: Date:

Sub- Sub- Sub- Sub- Sub- Remarks

Family/Scientific name
staion station station station statio (dominance,
(arranged alphabetically)
1 2 3 4 5 etc)

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Algal Biomass - the amount of algae in a water body at a given time

Annex 5. Fisheries Biodiversity (Freshwater Lakes and Rivers)

Annex 5 - Table 1. Annual Fisherfolk Inventory
Annex 5 - Table 1. Annual Fisherfolk Inventory

ANNUAL FISHERFOLK INVENTORY

Fisherfolk Inventory

2015
Coastal Boat Gear Catch
Municipality
No.
fisherfolk Number Kind Number Kind Volume Species

Total

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Annex 5 - Table 2 Fisheries Inventory Survey Form for
Annex 5 - Table 2. Fisheries Inventory Survey Form for Capture Fisheries
Capture Fisheries
FISHERIES INVENTORY SURVEY FORM FOR CAPTURE FISHERIES

Inland wetland: Coordinates:

Municipality: Coordinates:

Lakeshore barangay: Coordinates:

Fishing ground: Coordinates:

Type of production system:
small scale commercial

Gear Boat Catch

Name Address
Type No. Type No. Volume Species

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Annex 5 - Table 3 Fisheries Inventory Survey Form for

Aquaculture
FISHERIES INVENTORY SURVEY FORM FOR AQUACULTURE

Inland wetland: Coordinates:

Municipality: Coordinates:

Lakeshore barangay: Coordinates:

Cage area: Coordinates:

Type of production system:

small scale commercial

Cage Boat Harvest

Name Address Volume

Type No. Type No. Species
(kg)

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 Annex 5 - Table 4. Catch and Effort Survey Form

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CATCH AND EFFORT SURVEY FORM

Landing Site: Date of survey:

Fishing ground: Time of survey:
Type of gear: Name of Enumerator:
No. times fishing in a day: Condition of the lake:
No. fishermen in the area: Weather condition:
No. fishermen interviewed:

Gear
Name of Name of species Total catch Price/kg Time of Kind of boat No. co-
Fisherman Mesh caught (kg) (P) fishing (M/NM/R) fishers
No. units
size
Annex 5 - Table 4 Catch and Effort Survey Form

Annex 5 - Table 5. Length-Weight Survey Form

 LENGTH-WEIGHT SURVEY FORM

Landing site: Date of survey:

Fishing ground: Time of survey:
Kind of gear: Enumerator:
Name of fisherman:

Species Species Species Species

Total catch(kg) Total catch(kg) Total catch(kg) Total catch(kg)

Weight Length Weight Length Weight Length Weight Length

(kg) (cm) (kg) (cm) (kg) (cm) (kg) (cm)
Annex 5 - Table 5 Length-Weight Survey Form

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WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
Algal Bloom - rapid increase in the population of algae in an aquatic system

Annex 6 - Table 1. Transect Cruise Monitoring

Annex 6. Wildlife/Megafauna
Field Data Form
Annex 6 - Table 1. Transect Cruise Monitoring Field Data Form
TRANSECT CRUISE MONITORING FIELD DATA FORM

Observer: Location (province, municipality, barangay, sitio):

Length of Transect: Date of Sampling:

Starting Time: End Time:

Species/ Resourece-use Number/ Incidence Time observed Remarks on what was

recorded observed

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Annex 6 - Table 2. Field Diary Data Form

Annex 6 - Table 2. Field Diary Data Form
FIELD DIARY DATA FORM

Observer:
Locality (province, municipality, barangay, sitio):
Period of observation:

1. For people encountered and their activities.

Type of products Quantity Use Market Price Exact Date
gathered location observed

2. Major unsustainable activities

Activities Number of Extent of destruction (area, Exact Date
people number of trees extracted, location observed
conducting the number of fish catch, etc)
activity

3. Signs of disturbance (small scale)

Activities/Observations Number Exact location Date observed

4. Wildlife observed
Species Type of record Number Habitat Location Date observed

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Annex 6 - Table 3 Bird Count Data Form
Annex 6 - Table 3. Bird Count Data Form

BIRD COUNT DATA FORM

Observer:
Location (province, municipality, barangay, sitio):
Date of Sampling:
Specific wetland habitat:

Bird Taxa Number

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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

Annex 6 - Table 4 Bat Count Data Form

Annex 6 - Table 4. Bat Count Data Form

BAT COUNT DATA FORM

Type of counts (Direct or Departure Count):

Number of observation stations:

Observers (indicate which station for each observer)

Location of roost /colony:

Directions to roost site observation stations:

Flight path (for departure count):

Date of count:

Observation station Bat count

Station 1
Station 2
Station 3

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Aquatic Macrophytes - large aquatic plants which sampling point and mixed together.
include mosses, liverworts, larger algae, as well as
Contour Crenulations - the insertion of streams
vascular plants. These are primary producers in
being indicated by the configuration of
lakes and rivers, thus, they sustain other groups
contour lines
of living organisms.
Correlation Analysis - the use of statistical
Basemap - A map showing background reference
correlation to evaluate the strength of the
information that may provide different
relations between variables
geospatial information such as landforms, roads,
landmarks, and political boundaries. Cultural Eutrophication - process of nutrient
enrichment caused by the decomposition
Biochemical Oxygen Demand - amount of
of organic materials dumped by humans into
dissolved oxygen needed by aerobic biological
bodies of water
organisms to break down organic material
present in a given water sample at certain Dissolved Oxygen - The dissolution of oxygen into
temperature over a specific time period. water. It is highly dependent upon temperature,
the solubility being 14.6 mg/l at 0°C and 7.6
Biodiversity - The variety of all life on earth:
mg/l at 30°C. Since oxygen is consumed in
the variability among living organisms from
the breakdown of organic pollutants, dissolved
all sources including terrestrial, marine and
oxygen can give a rapid assessment of the level
other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological
of pollution in a river.
complexes of which they are part; this includes
diversity within species, between species and of Diversity Index - measure of diversity which
ecosystems. takes into account both richness and evenness.

Biodiversity Monitoring System - a tool to collect Effluent Stream - Effluent rivers otherwise known
data on priority species and resource use and to as gaining stream are streams which get their
guide decision-making by the Protected Areas water from the ground water. It is common in
Management Board (PAMB) tropical and temperate climates, and generally
become both wider and deeper downstream due
Catchment - An area drained by a river and all its
to increase runoff.
tributaries; also referred to as a drainage basin
or river basin. The morphological parameters Ephemeral stream - Streams that flow only during
of the river basin, such as area, shape, slope, and immediately after heavy rainfall are termed
perimeter, drainage density, soil permeability ephemeral.
etc. may be used to explain observed variations
in hydrological phenomena and then employed
Eutrophication - a sign of habitat deterioration
in predictive equations for sites without formal
because the bloom when it eventually dies
hydrometric networks.
(bloom collapse) and decays, leads to oxygen
Chlorophyll A - A type of chlorophyll that is (O2) depletion in the water
most common and predominant in all oxygen-
Frustrums - In geometry, a frustum is the portion
evolving photosynthetic organisms such as
of a solid (normally cone pyramid) that lies
higher plants, red and green algae.
between two parallel planes cutting it.
Composite Sample - a series of individual grab
Field Diary Method - defined in BMS as a method
samples taken at different times from the same
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 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL

that comprises standardized recording of routine latitude and longitude coordinates, to various
observations on resource use, habitat and wildlife media in the form of metadata
in a simple pocketbook or data sheet during
Globally-Mandated Species - These species are
regular patrols in the Protected Area.
recognized as important by key governing
Fish Catch Monitoring - a systematic and science- bodies such as IUCN and Ramsar. Species
based method for gathering information on the included in the IUCN Red List are indicative
status, trends, and exploitation of the fishery of decline in abundance, and categorized as
resources in inland wetland areas. such depending on the severity in decline (i.e.
Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable
Fish Kill - phenomenon in which fishes suddenly
categories). Ramsar Convention advocates the
die in great numbers in a certain locality
conservation and protection of waterbirds such
Fisheries Resource Mapping - method of collating as ducks, egrets, and heron to name a few.
and plotting information on the occurrence,
Grab Sample - a single water sample collected at
distribution, access and use of fishery resources
one time from a single point. It represents only
within the lakeshore community of inland
the composition of water at the time and place
wetland areas.
of sample collection.
Fishery Inventory - a comprehensive list of fishery
Headwaters or Upstream - a tributary stream of a
units identified in a given geographic location.
river close to or forming part of its source.
Freshwater Fishes - Fishes with little or no tolerance
Hemocytometer - a specimen slide which is used to
of brackish water, that is water with more than
determine the concentration of cells in a liquid
0.5 grams per liter total dissolved mineral salts
sample; invented by Louis-Charles Malassez
Gage Datum - as it applies to the area of the
Herbarium - an institution for the collection of
weather can be defined as ‘ A horizontal surface
dried plant specimens
used as a zero point for measurement of stage
or gage height. This surface usually is located Hydrograph - graphical or tabular representation
slightly below the lowest point of the stream of streamflow or volume of runoff rate against
bottom such that the gage height is usually time
slightly greater than the maximum depth of
Hydrologic Cycle - also called water cycle; the
water. Because the gage datum is not an actual
circulation of water from the sea, through the
physical object, the datum is usually defined by
atmosphere, to the land, and thence back to the
specifying the elevations of permanent reference
sea by overland and subterranean routes
marks such as bridge abutments and survey
monuments, and the gage is set to agree with Hydrologic Delineation - The procedure of
the reference marks. placing on a map and determining in the field
the boundaries of a wetland. The procedure is
Geographic Information - a computer-based
based on pre-determined criteria pertaining to
system designed to visualize, question, analyze,
the definition of the term “wetland” adopted by
and Systems - interpret data to understand
the persons conducting the delineation.
relationships, patterns, and trends.
Hydrology - The study of the cycle of water
Geo-Tagging - process of adding the current
movement on, over and through the surface of
geographical information, usually by means of
the earth.

137 |
Identifiable species - Species that are recognized
by local people, and usually species that are
relatively large, and oftentimes utilized for food,
pets (or even pests in the case of wildpigs in
Muslim-dominated provinces), or medicine.
Influent Stream - Influent streams do not usually
get deeper and wider downstream. Sometimes
it is termed losing stream. Several explanations
for the loss of water are seepage into the ground
water reservoir, evaporation, and transpiration.
Intermittent stream - also called seasonal stream,
one that only flows for part of the year and is
represented on topographic map legend with a
line of blue dashes and dots.
Invasive And Disturbance - Invasive species are not
historically known to a given area (alien Species
- species) and have managed to invade habitats
and displaced (or even consumed) native
species. There are species that are associated with
habitat disturbances and presence of such can be
indicative of declining habitat quality.
ISO 17025 - the set of general guideline
requirements for the competence to carry out
tests and/or calibrations, including sampling. It
covers testing and calibration performed using
standard methods, non-standard methods and
laboratory developed methods.
Keystone species - Species on which other species
in an ecosystem largely depend, such that if it
were removed the ecosystem would change
drastically. Can also include indicator species,
which is defined as an animal or plant species
that can be used to infer conditions in a particular
habitat. In some instances, both keystone and
indicator species are habitat specialists. As in the
case of wetland habitats, waterbirds are an ideal
example. Monitoring these species types can
reveal trends in habitat health.
Lake - An inland body of water, small to moderately
large, with its surface water exposed to the
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atmosphere and which may occasionally be
saline.
Lugol’s Iodine - deep brown solutions of iodine
and potassium iodide in water or alcohol that
are used in medicine and as microscopic stains
Marsh - A transitional land-water area, covered
at least part of the time by surface water or
saturated by groundwater at, or near the
surface. Characterized by aquatic and glass-like
vegetation, usually without peat accumulation.
Megafauna - referred to generally as “large
mammals of a particular region, habitat, or a
geological period.”
Non-Point Source Pollution - generally results
from land runoff, precipitation, atmospheric
deposition, drainage, seepage or hydrologic
modification.
Pearson’s Correlation - describe the direction and
the magnitude of the relationship between two
variables.
Perennial stream - one which flows continuously
all year. Some perennial streams may only have
continuous flow in segments of its stream bed
year round during years of normal rainfall.
A solid blue line shown on topographic map
legend represents perennial streams.
Phytoplankton - are single-celled organisms of
lakes, streams and oceans that make their own
food from sunlight through photosynthesis. It
is a major source of food for aquatic animals
and fix large amounts of carbon, which would
otherwise be released as carbon dioxide.
Planimeter - a measuring device or instrument
used to determine the area of an arbitrary two
dimension shape.
Point Source Pollution - a single, identifiable
source of pollution such as a pipe or a drain.
Industrial wastes are commonly discharged to
 WETLANDS ECOSYSTEMS BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING MANUAL
rivers and the sea in this way.
Pollution Load - the quantity of pollutants present
in an environment
Primary Stations - fixed sampling stations that are
regular sites not impacted by human activities,
and are for continuous or long-term monitoring.
Remote Sensing - the acquisition of information
about the environment and the surface of the
earth from a distance, primarily by sensing
radiation that is naturally emitted or reflected
by the earth’s surface or from the atmosphere, or
by sensing signals transmitted from a device and
reflected back to it.
River Discharge - the volume of water flowing
through a river channel. This is the total volume
of water flowing through a channel at any given
point and is measured in cubic meters per second
(m3/sec). The discharge from a drainage basin
depends on precipitation, evapotranspiration
and storage factors.
River - A large, natural freshwater surface stream
having a permanent or seasonal flow and moving
towards a sea, lake, or another river in a definite
channel.
Secchi Disk - equipment used for determining
water transparency to sunlight.
Secondary Stations - sampling stations for
characterizing ecological conditions in a part of
the watershed impacted by a known source of
stress.
Spatial Stratification - used to represent each
conservation target across its range of variation
(in internal composition and landscape
setting) within the ecoregion, to ensure long-
term viability of the type by buffering against
degradation in one portion of its range, and to
allow for possible geographic variation.
Species Diversity - the abundance, or number of
individuals of different species
Stream - a body of running water moving under the
influence of gravity to lower levels in a narrow,
clearly defined natural channel.
Streamflow/Discharge - defined as the volumetric
rate of flow of water (volume per unit time) in an
open channel, including any sediment or other
solids that may be dissolved or mixed with it.
Topographical Map - A type of map characterized
by large-scale detail and quantitative
representation of relief, usually using contour
lines, but historically using a variety of methods.
Total Dissolved Solids - total amount of mobile
charged ions, including minerals, salts or
metals dissolved in a given volume of water,
expressed in units of mg per unit volume of
water (mg/L)
Total Suspended Solids - dry-weight of particles
trapped by a filter.
Transect Cruise - to count and record occurrences
of the species of study using a boat along
shorelines
Transect Walk - a systematic walk along a defined
path (transect) across the community/project
area together with the local people to explore the
water and sanitation conditions by observing,
asking, listening, looking and producing a
transect diagram.
Utilized Species - These species are directly utilized
as food, medicine, or as means oflivelihood, and
thereby easily recognizable by local people and
the monitoring team.
Visual Encounter Survey – - a systematic search
of amphibians and reptiles along an established
2 Transect - 2.5 kilometre transect, and done
preferably at night time
Water Quality - physical, chemical, and biological
characteristics of a water body.
Watershed - defined as the area of land from
139 |
 which rainwater can drain, as surface runoff, via
a specific stream or river system to a common
outlet or point which may be a dam, irrigation
system or municipal/urban water supply off
take point, or where the steam/river discharges
into a larger river, lake or sea. Watershed can
also be seen as a hydrologic unit that has been
described and used both as a physical-biological
unit and as a socioeconomic and socio political
unit for planning and implementing resource
management activities. In the Philippines,
the term is further classified and arranged in
order of rank according to areal extend and
administrative coverage. An area of 1000 km2
is named river basin, large watershed (500-1000
km2), medium watershed (100-500 km2), small
watershed (10 -100 km2) and less than 10 km2
is called micro watershed.
Wetlands - Ramsar definition : “Areas of marsh, fen,
peatland or water, whether natural or artificial,
permanent or temporary, with water that is
static, flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including
areas of marine water, the depth of which at low
tide does not exceed six meters”.
Wildlife - pertains to higher classes of vertebrates
(animals with backbone) belonging amphibians,
reptiles, birds, and mammals.

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Department of Environment and Natural Resources
BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT BUREAU
Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
Diliman, 1100 Quezon City Philippines
phone +(63 2) 924-6031 to 35
fax +(63 2) 9240109
www.bmb.gov.ph
email: bmb@bmb.gov.ph