CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Mangroves play an important role in the ecological stability of the coastal

ecosystem and other nearby ecosystems. They act as buffer zone against

typhoons and tidal waves, prevent soil erosion, and serve as land builders

through soil accretion. There are lot of marine species that usually found in plant

environments like mangrove areas because this type of ecosystem serves as

their home, including some appearing in big numbers and provide food and

shelter to a lot of number of shellfish and fish with high commercial value

(Manson et. al, 2005). The mangrove areas serve as habitat, breeding, feeding,

and rearing grounds to the majority of the commercially significant finfish and

shellfish, on which the livelihood of thousands of coastal residents depends.

Benthic macroinvertebrates play a critical role in the marine ecology,

(Macdonald, et, al. 2012) because different kinds of macroinvertebrates have

different levels of pollution tolerance. They can be used as water quality

indicators (Alexander, et. al, 2007) of overall ecosystem health and species

diversity, making them the ideal study organism of conservation and biodiversity.

Benthic organisms account for almost 95% of all known marine species. These

include epifauna that live on or move across a substrate's surface (Tagliapietra,

et. al, 2010). They can connect to a solid substrate and/or move freely along the

1
seafloor. The infauna, or individuals who live within the sediments rather than on

the bottom, is the other group. (Smith, et. al, 2006).

Several studies have been conducted relating to benthic

macroinvertebrates in mangrove areas in the country but it was still insufficient to

supply systemic records about the taxonomy and ecology of these species. As a

result, much of the studies conducted about benthic macroinvertebrates in the

Philippines are still based on the collection of many foreign researchers, e.g.

collection of Palanisamy Satheesh Kumar together with Anisa Basheer Khan

from September 2008 to July 2010.

Benthic macroinvertebrates are important components of the aquatic food

web. By devouring germs and decaying plants and animals, they contribute to

the health of the water ecosystem. Sudden shifts in species composition and

relative abundance in otherwise stable communities indicate poor health or

considerable system perturbation (Orth, 1982).

Changes in the presence or absence of these species, as well as their

abundance, morphology, physiology, or behavior, can signal that the water's

physicochemical conditions have surpassed their optimal units (Kenney, 2009).

The open sea and intertidal ecosystems are vulnerable to a variety of main

contaminants resulting from a variety of harmful human activities (Smith, et. al,

2006).

At present, there is no complete study concerning the diversity and

variation of macrobenthic invertebrates in mangrove forest especially here in

2
Philippines. With these, the researcher aimed to provide an inventory sampling

of the benthic macroinvertebrates that are found in the mangrove areas as well

as vegetation analysis of the said ecosystem in Maasim, Sarangani Province.

Objectives

The researcher attempted to find out the status of benthic

macroinvertebrates in selected mangrove areas of Maasim, Sarangani Province.

Specifically, the researcher’s output sought to answer the following

questions:

1. Examine the status quo of mangrove vegetation in Maasim, Sarangani

Province.

2. Determine the water class through physico-chemical parameters of the

area.

3. Identify the benthic macroinvertebrates found in mangrove areas of

Maasim, Sarangani Province; and

4. Determine the measurements of diversity indices of benthic

macroinvertebrates.

Significance of the Study

A survey of benthic macroinvertebrates is needed to determine whether

the mangrove forest of Maasim, Sarangani Province still supports key species.

This research looks at the species diversity, composition, and abundance in the

area. The research findings will serve as the baseline data to help residents

3
understand the potential effects of current human activities in the area and

encourage Local Government Units (LGUs) to develop measures to help

conserve and preserve the mangrove environment, as well as the various

species present.

This study aims to provide biological information to support future

management of species since benthic macroinvertebrates are a keystone

species in the marine environment. A keystone species preys on animals with no

other natural predators, and if they are removed from the environment, their prey

will become more abundant, potentially displacing other species.

For the academe, this research will be useful to the future researchers,

who aims to have an assessment regarding with the diversity and abundance of

benthic macroinvertebrates present in mangrove areas. It will also deliver a hint

into the threats that these organisms are facing at the moment. Every interested

student researcher may also use the findings of this study to evaluate the

abundance estimates, detailed study on their behavior, habitat use and

preferences, and distribution patterns of benthic macroinvertebrates in Maasim,

Sarangani Province.

Furthermore, it would be a great help to the DENR to conduct actions

based on the results of this study with regards to the population assessment of

benthic macroinvertebrates in mangrove areas. This study will help them

comprehend the diversity and distribution pattern and potentially conclude any

actions to help in conserving these species as well as the mangroves itself.

4
Scope and Limitation

This research focused on the assessment of benthic macroinvertebrates

particularly in Maasim, Sarangani Province. However, due to the limitation of

budget of the researcher, this study was conducted only in selected mangrove

areas of Barangay Tinoto and Barangay Lumasal. This paper focused on the

assessment of the benthic macroinvertebrates found in mangrove areas of

Maasim, Sarangani Province only.

Each month, three sites was assessed during day time and low-tide. Six

replicates of samples taken with a core sampler and sieved through a 0.5 mm

mesh was used to represent the infauna population during each sampling

interval. Six further replicates of samples taken from the 1 × 1 m 2 quadrat's

substratum surface were represent the epifauna population. Mare (1942) defined

macrobenthic organisms as metazoans that remained after being filtered through

a 1 mm mesh sieve, although this definition disallows juveniles and recently

established macrofauna (Bachelet, 1990). In order to collect well-represented

data on benthic macroinvertebrates, a 0.5 mm mesh was utilized (Bachelet,

1990).

Additionally, environmental parameters including temperature, pH,

salinity, and dissolving oxygen were noted. The samples of benthic

macroinvertebrates were identified down to the species level. Even though dead

5
animals were present during collection, it was not included in the quantitative

data analysis.

Definition of Terms

The following are the study's primary variables and their operational

definitions:

Species Diversity is the number of species in a

community, and is directly associated

with measuring the diversity of species

in a given area. (Ehrlich, et. al, 2006)

Macroinvertebrates are organisms that are large (macro)

enough to be seen with the naked eye

and lack a backbone (invertebrate).

(EPA)

Species Richness conceptually, this refers to the measure

of the number of species found in a

sample, community or taxonomic group.

Operationally, to calculate species

richness by simply identifying and

6
counting the number of species present

in the sample. (Brouchet, et. al, 2000)

7
 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents a review of related literature and studies that were

used in providing significant data for the study.

Related Literature

This section is a literature review on the concepts related to the variables

included in this study. This will set as the information limited to the study.

Benthic Macroinvertebrates

Organisms that dwell on or inside the deposit at the bottom of a body of

water are known as benthic macroinvertebrates (Idowu & Ugwumba 2005). They

are plainly visible to the human eye, with body sizes ranging from 0.5 mm to 3

mm on average. Several species of organisms, including Porifera, Annelids,

Coelenterates, Mollusks, Crustaceans, Arthropods, and others, can be found in

the coastal water ecosystem. In aquatic environments, these species are critical

to the circulation and recirculation of nutrients. Organisms, according to

Imevbore & Bakare (1970), are the link between detritus' inaccessible nutrients

and fish and shellfish's useable protein materials. As a result, the majority of

benthic creatures feed on trash. They sink to the bottom of the water and provide

food for a variety of species.

The mangrove areas are home to many of these benthic

macroinvertebrates. The mangrove areas, which are always found in the coasts

8
of world's seas and is defined as the feeding, breeding and rearing ground,

sustains a diverse and distinct biota made up almost entirely of marine creatures.

Because intertidal species are constantly exposed to air, they must avoid or

survive environmental challenges that are rarely experienced in the subtidal zone

(Esenowo & Ugwumba 2010). As a result, Gray (2000) hypothesized that benthic

populations are an index of the ecosystem's ecological health because

organisms detect pollution over time.

Physical Characteristics

According to Environmental Protection (EPA), benthic macroinvertebrates

(literally "bottom-dwelling") are small aquatic animals including the aquatic larval

stages of insects. Dragonfly and stonefly larvae, snails, worms, and beetles are

among them. They have no backbone, are visible without a microscope, and

spend part of their life in and around water bodies. Benthic macroinvertebrates

are commonly found connected to rocks, logs, and sticks, mangrove forest or

burrowed into the sand and sediments at the bottom of the ocean. Benthic

macroinvertebrates are organisms that are large (macro) enough to be seen with

the naked eye and lack a backbone (invertebrate).

Figure 1. Pictures showing the different kinds of benthic macroinvertebrates.

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gesine- Lange/publication/267641718/
figure/fig1/AS:614005521514503@1523401732635/Most-common-benthic-
species-sampled-by-grab-and-dredge-from-the-Angolan-shelf-at-depths.png
9
Habitat and Distribution

The majority of benthic macroinvertebrates are present all year, however

they are most easily found in the summer. Many species burrow deep into the silt

or remain dormant on rock surfaces during the winter months (Water Fact Sheet,

2010). According to Australian Online Coastal Information, macroinvertebrates

can be found in a variety of running waters, ranging from fast-moving mountain

streams to slow-moving muddy rivers. Insects in their larval or nymph form,

crayfish, clams, snails, and worms are examples of aquatic macroinvertebrates.

The majority of them spend part or all of their lives connected to submerged

rocks, logs, and vegetation. Benthic macroinvertebrates dwell on the surface of

bedforms (e.g., rock, coral, or sediment – epibenthos) or within sedimentary

deposits (infauna), and are classified as deposit-feeders, filter-feeders, grazers,

or predators. Benthic invertebrates' abundance, diversity, biomass, and species

composition can all be utilized as indicators of changing environmental

conditions. (Heip, 1995).

Biological Circuition and Reproduction

The large variation in aquatic

macroinvertebrate reproduction is

expressed in species traits such as egg

size, egg number, brood care and how

reproductive investment is distributed over

clutches. These traits can be positioned on two different axes (Fig. 2). The first

Figure 2. Life cycle of a macroinvertebrate

10 sea star Asteroidea. https://hi-static.z
dn.net/files/d30/30d3c37404b7a01d960be6
e82
8ad227c.jpg
axis relates to per capita investment. There is a well-known trade-off between

egg size and egg number, with animals laying either many small eggs or a few

large eggs (e.g. Berrigan, 1991).

Feeding Gesture

Benthic macroinvertebrates are an integral part of the aquatic food chain,

converting energy stored in organic materials into a food source for fish and

other vertebrates. They eat algae, germs, and leaves. Fish, amphibians, birds,

and other vertebrates consume them. Benthic macroinvertebrates release

nutrients into the water, which are then utilized by aquatic plants and animals,

thereby continuing the cycle. (Petty, 2022).

Threats on Macroinvertebrates

They are threatened by pollution, development, logging, grazing, water

extraction, and climate change, to name a few. Aquatic macroinvertebrates are

essential markers of aquatic ecosystem health because they are widespread in

all aquatic ecosystems and are sensitive to environmental change. (Robles,

2013).

RELATED STUDIES

This section presents the local and foreign related studies for the better

understanding of this research. It may also present findings that can be used to

strengthen this study.

11
Foreign Study

Distribution of macrobenthos and related environmental parameters were

explored at four mangrove stations along the Pondicherry coast of India, from

September 2008 to July 2010. Multivariate statistical analyses, including cluster

analysis, principal component analysis and non-multidimensional scales plot

were employed to help define trophic status, water quality and benthic

characteristic at the four monitoring stations. Among the 528 samples collected,

over 168 ha of mangrove forest, 76 species of benthic macroinvertebrate fauna

were identified. Macrofauna were mainly composed of deposit feeders,

dominated numerically by mollusks and crustaceans. From a different

multivariate statistical analysis of the different environmental parameters

regarding species diversity and abundance of benthic macroinvertebrate fauna, it

was found that benthic communities are highly affected by all the environmental

parameters governing the distribution and diversity variation of the macrofaunal

community in Pondicherry mangroves. Salinity, dissolved oxygen levels, organic

matter content, sulphide concentration were the most significant parameters.

(Kumar and Khan, 2013).

Researchers in China revealed that few studies have systematically

assessed the ecological status of mangrove wetlands following the stress of

anthropogenic activities in China. The study investigated the spatial and

seasonal distribution of benthic macroinvertebrate communities and assessed

12
the ecological quality of mangrove habitats on an island scale in Hainan, China

(containing the third largest mangrove area of China and the highest mangrove

species richness). For the benthic macrofauna community structure, a total of

102 macrobenthic taxa belonging to 50 families were identified, with

Crustaceans, Mollusks, Polychaetes, and Oligochaeta having relative

abundances of 52.3%, 36.1%, 10.8%, and 0.8%, respectively. Decapoda and

Gastropoda dominated the benthic community abundance. Non-metric

multidimensional scaling and an analysis of similarities revealed significantly

different macroinvertebrate assemblages among the regions during the two

seasons. The South mangroves had the lowest macrofauna species numbers,

biodiversity, richness, and abundance. (Ping et. al, 2022).

Another study of the macrobenthos diversity was conducted in Persian

Gulf. A total of 122 macrofauna taxa were identified. The diversity of species was

higher in summer than in winter. In the Beach habitats, species diversity showed

an increasing trend from land toward the mangrove, whereas in Creek habitats

diversity decreased from the Creek toward the mangrove. (Hajializadeh et. al,

2020).

Local Studies

The study of Marichu Libres (2015) in Eastern Bohol is a descriptive

survey method through actual resource assessment was conducted to determine

the species diversity of macro-benthic invertebrates in the mangrove areas and

seagrass beds of Eastern Bohol, Philippines namely: Anda, Candijay, Mabini,

13
and Ubay. The four representative sites were chosen through random sampling.

In each municipality, the researcher selected a representative area wherein 3

transects were laid perpendicular to the shoreline. The assessment in each

transects covered a strip of 4 m by 50 m. All benthic macroinvertebrates

intercepted within 4-meter to the left and right of the transect line were identified,

counted and listed in a slate board. Based on the findings, the researcher

concluded that benthic macroinvertebrates in eastern part of Bohol is diverse

both in mangrove areas and seagrass beds. Moreover, there is no significant

difference in the species diversity among the four representative sites.

14
 CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

Research Locale

The municipality of Maasim is located at 5° 55' 12.9324"N 124° 56'

36.456"E on the island of Mindanao, Philippines. Specifically, three sites were

selected to represent the municipality of Maasim in this assessment, namely 1.)

Lumasal (5°53'11.6"N 124°50'44.9"E); 2.) Linao (5°53'00.5"N 125°05'35.9"E);

and 3.) Asnalang (5°56'11.3"N 125°05'33.4"E).

SITE 1

SITE 2

SITE 3

SITE 1 SITE 2

SITE 3

15
 Figure 3. Map of the study area. Inset Map of the Philippines, Sarangani Bay
with sampling sites.
Research Design

This study employed a quantitative research design utilizing descriptive

and correlational method. It describes the status of macrobenthos diversity in

mangroves that can be found in Maasim, Sarangani Province obtaining through

basic statistical procedure, focusing on the mangrove areas of Barangay Tinoto

and Lumasal.

The variety and quantity of benthic macroinvertebrates at each study site

were evaluated using a quadrat and core sampler. The information was

subsequently utilized to correlate benthic macroinvertebrates with environmental

factors at each study location, such as temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved

oxygen.

Data Collection

The study was undertaken last October-December 2022. Benthic

macroinvertebrates, vegetation analysis and environmental factors such as

salinity, temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen at three chosen sites were

measured during the sampling period on low tide.

A. Site Selection

The study was conducted at Sitio Linao and Sitio Asnalang located in Brgy.

Tinoto, and Sitio Lubo in Brgy. Lumasal, Maasim, Sarangani Province and was

16
surveyed for diversity value of benthic macroinvertebrates. Sampling was

conducted during on October-December 2022 during low tide, since the area of

interest was a sub tidal zone (zone submerged in water during high tide).

B. Establishment of Transects and Quadrats

In sampling site, suitable areas were selected where species of benthic

macroinvertebrates can be found. About two transects each with length of one

hundred meters was laid in the area. At least fifty meter of distance was

observed in each of transect. It was perpendicular to the coastal area. Along the

transect line, sampling quadrats with an area of 1 meter 2 (1m x 1m) was placed.

Such that about six quadrats was established along the transect line.

C. Mangrove Vegetation Analysis

For the vegetation analysis in selected sites, the researcher used the

Guidelines on the Assessment of Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (2017) from

Biodiversity Management Bureau of Department of Environment and Natural

Resources. At the chosen sampling sites for mangrove areas, two replicate

transect lines are laid from the shoreline extending to the landward zone of the

mangrove stand/forests. Plots measuring 10m x 10m will be established along

the transect line. The number of plots per transect were determined on the extent

of the mangrove stand. All trees (growing with heights > 3m) enclosed with the

10m x 10m plot will be identified and counted and their percentage crown cover

estimated. The percentage crown cover is obtained following the equation below.

Total crown cover of all trees

Percentage Crown Cover = x 100
Total area sampled

17
 Mangroves trees were identified using Primavera et al. (2004) Handbook

of Mangroves in the Philippines- Panay. Furthermore, mangrove area is then

assessed following the mangrove habitat criteria developed during a

Participatory Coastal Resource Assessment in a Coastal Resource Management

Project (PCRA-CRMP) in Ragay Gulf (Deguit et al., 2004).

D. Statistical Analysis

Data were drafted in Microsoft excel 2007 and were analyzed using PAST

(PALeontological Statistics) software introduced by Hammer et al. (2001).

Abundance, species richness and relative species abundance were calculated in

each site. Furthermore, to determine the species diversity in the community and

to provide data of the commonness and rarity of benthic macroinvertebrates in

the community, Shannon Diversity Index was utilized.

E. Non-parametic Test

To test if benthic macroinvertebrates abundance varied across sampling

sites and seasonal changes, Kruskal-Wallis Test will be utilized using PAST

(PALeontological Statistics) software. Through ranking data and determining the

medians of each group, the test was deciphered to know if there is a significant

difference between groups. Where n is the sum of sample sizes in three

sampling sites, c as number of sampling sites, Tj as sum of ranks in a specific

sampling site, and nj as the sample size of a specific sampling site.

18
 CHAPTER IV

PRESENTATION, RESUSLTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter includes the presentation, analysis and interpretation of data

on benthic macroinvertebrate in mangrove areas of Maasim, Sarangani

Province.

Vegetation Analysis

During the assessment on mangroves in Maasim, Sarangani, the

researcher recorded a total of 165 mangrove individuals along the transect lines

laid in the study area. There are at least 5 species of mangroves from 3 families

identified. Different environmental parameters were also accumulated during the

assessment. The results are as follows:

Table 1. Condition of Mangrove Areas in Maasim, Sarangani Province

based on Participatory Coastal Resource Assessment (PCRA) (Deguit et.
al, 2004)

LSL LIN ASN MAASIM

60.25 % - 64.20 % - 62.73 % - 62.39 % -

Percentage CC
Good Good Good Good

Regeneration 4.13% - 3.60% - 4.67% - 4.13 % -

rate (r/m2) poor poor poor poor

19
 Average 12.93 m – 11.94 m – 11.44 m – 12.10 m –
Height (m) Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent
Moderately Moderately Moderately
Slight
Mangrove disturbance disturbance disturbanc
disturbanc
Status and and e and
e and few
Quo noticeably noticeably noticeably
cuttings
cuttings cuttings cuttings

In light with the table 1 above, it describes the condition of mangrove

areas in Maasim, Sarangani Province based on the criteria used to assess the

condition of mangrove stands developed from a Participatory Coastal

Resource Assessment during a Coastal Resource Management Project in Ragay

Gulf (PCRA-MPR). Based on the results of the researcher, the percentage crown

cover of mangrove areas in Maasim are all in good condition which ranges its

percentage from 51-75 % crown cover, however the regeneration rate of

mangrove seedlings and saplings are in the category of poor condition which

ranges not exceeding 5% total regeneration. This is because the areas are

residential coast which were concluded that the areas are noticeable moderately

disturbed. However, the average height of mangroves in Maasim falls under

excellent category with 12.10m average height, and based on the observations

of the researchers, these mangroves are old, thus supporting the low

regeneration rate in the areas.

Table 2. Species compositions of Mangroves in Maasim, Sarangani
Province
No. Of
Common
Family Species Indivi LSL LIN MSM IUCN IV
Name
duals
Avicennia
Avicenniaceae Piape baye 27 + + + LC 133.06
marina
Rhizophora Bakhaw
Rhizophoraceae 43 + + + LC 163.08
apiculata laki
Rhizophoraceae Rhizophora Bakhaw 37 + + + LC 124.82

20
 mucronata baye
Rhizophora Red
Rhizophoraceae 16 + + + LC 76.65
stylosa mangrove
Sonneratia
Sonneratiaceae Pagatpat 42 + + + LC 202.39
alba

Grand total 165

The table above presents the species compositions of mangroves in

Maasim, Sarangani Province (Table 2). There are at least 165 mangrove

individuals belonging to 5 species and 3 families found along with the transects

in study sites of the researcher. 42 of which are identified as Sonneratia alba, 27

Avicennia marina, 43 Rhizophora apiculata, 37 Rhizophora mucronata, and 16

Rhizophora stylosa with a total mean average of 33.0. These species were

identified as least concerned (LC) according to IUCN 3:1 (IUCN, 2017). The

table also presents the importance value of 5 species of mangroves in Maasim

which are Avicennia marina, Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata,

Rhizophora stylosa, and Sonneratia alba that have an importance value of

133.06, 163.08. 124.82. 76.65, 202.39 respectively.

Physicochemical
LSL LIN ASN MEAN ± SD
Parameters
Temperature 28.7˚C 30.6˚C
28.2˚C 29.2˚C ± 1.27
Dissolved 7.33 7.06 mg/L ±
7.25 mg/L 6.59 mg/L
Oxygen mg/L 0.41
pH 7.46 8.06 7.03 7.52 ± 0.52
29.9
Salinity 24.6 ppt 25.8 ppt 26.8 ppt ± 2.78
ppt
Class Waters SA SA SA SA
Table 3. Physico-chemical parameters in Maasim, Sarangani Province

21
 The table shows the physico-chemical parameters in the study area of the

researcher (Table 3). The water class in Maasim is under the category of SA by

the DAO-DENR which means that water is designated as local or marine parks,

reserves, sanctuaries and other areas established by law (Presidential

Proclamation 1801 and other existing laws) and/or declared as such by

appropriate agencies, LGUs, etc. Based on the results, site 2 has the highest

temperature ranging 30.6˚C followed by site 1 with 28.7˚C and lastly, site 3 with

28.2˚C during the sampling period. The mean temperature value in Maasim was

29.2˚C with a standard deviation of ±1.27. For the dissolved oxygen, site 3 has

the highest value of DO having 7.33 mg/L followed by site 1 with 7.25 mg/L and

lastly, site 2 with 6.59 mg/L. The mean dissolved oxygen in Maasim was 7.06

mg/L with a standard deviation of ±0.41. Salinity and pH were also distinguished

in different study areas as it also considered as environmental parameters. Site 2

has the highest level of pH among the 3 sites with 8.06 while site 1 had 7.46 and

site 1 had only 7.03. This indicates that water in three sites were basic than

acidic with a standard deviation of ±0.52. For the salinity of water, site 3 is more

saline compared to site 1 and 2 since site 3 had a salinity of 29.9 ppt while site 1

and 2 had only 24.6 ppt and 25.8 ppt respectively. The mean salinity of waters in

Maasim was 26.8 ppt with a standard deviation of ±2.78. A standard deviation

close to zero indicates that data points are close to the mean, whereas a high or

low standard deviation indicates data points are respectively above or below the

mean.

22
 LAB TEST RESULTS
Sample
Sample % % % % Soil Texture
Label
Number Gravel Sand Silt Clay Class
SH 45 Linao 0.66 56.54 10.21 32.59 Sandy Clay Loam

SH 46 Asnalang 6.89 58.58 9.76 24.77 Sandy Clay Loam

SH 47 Lumasal 2.45 60.67 6.49 30.99 Sandy Clay Loam

Sandy Clay
Mean 3.33 58.6 8.82 29.45
Loam
Table 4. Sediment Analysis

Table 4 indicates the results of sediment analysis in three different study

sites. Sediment analysis, which are crucial to particular species, are also

important to many ecosystems. Sediments in Linao, Asnalang and Lumasal was

mainly composed of sand and clay having a value of 56.54%, 58.58, and 60.67

for sediment while 32.59%, 24.77% and 30.99% for clay respectively. Maasim

has a sandy clay loam type of soil texture where the area is dominated by sand

and clay that helps the structure and fertility of the sediments in the area. Linao

and Asnalang are two Sitios in Barangay Tinoto, and just meters away from each

other resulting into most likely identical sediments in the area. These two

sampling sites have sandy clay loam soil structure based on the sediment

analysis. These results indicate that the sediment in all different sites of the

researcher was basically sandy clay loam.

Benthic Macroinvertebrates

A total of 843 benthic macroinvertebrates were found in selected

mangrove regions in Maasim, Sarangani Province. Lumasal’s mangrove regions

23
have collected 53 infauna and 297 epifauna organisms, which dominate the

maximum number of individuals studied in Maasim. Linao mangrove habitats

have 32 individuals of infauna and 186 individuals of epifauna. During the

sample period, the Asnalang mangroves produced 28 infauna species and 196

epifaunal organisms.

I. Infauna Community

There are 123 individuals from 4 species among the infauna creatures

sampled in Maasim, Sarangani Province. This community is also comprised of 4

families identified as the Family of Megascolecidae, Nereididae, Sipunculidae, and

Ocypodidae. Furthermore, the infauna organisms are divided into two phyla:

Phylum Annelida (81%), and Subphylum Crustacea (19%). In accordance with the

International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, all 4 infauna

species are considered "not evaluated”.

Table 5. Species composition of infauna benthic macroinvertebrates in

Maasim, Sarangani Province: F – Food, T – Trade, E – Ecologically Important,
NE – Not Evaluated, and LC – Least Concerned

Sites Usage Conservation

English
Name Status
LSL LIN ASN F T E (IUCN, 2023)
Phylum Annelida
Family Megascolecidae
Pontodrilus litoralis Earthworm + + + / NE

Family Nereididae
Namalycastis None + - - / NE

24
hawaiiensis
Family Sipunculidae
Sipunculus nudus Peanut + + + / NE
worm
Phylum Arthropoda
Family Ocypodidae
Uca vocans Orange + + + / NE
Fidler
Crabs
SUB-TOTAL 4 3 3

The table above presents the species composition of infauna benthic

macroinvertebrates in Maasim, Sarangani Province. The total infauna species

recorded in Maasim was 123 and based on the results, there are at least 4

species found in Lumasal while 3 species can be found in both Linao and

Asnalang. These 4 species of infauna individuals were from Phylum Annelida

which are typically worms inhabit in muddy or clay sediments in coastal and

Subphylum crustacea which mainly composed of shrimp and crabs.

Sipunculus nudus or peanutworms dominated the area with over 66 individuals

while the lowest infauna species found was Namalycastis hawaiiensis from

family Neriididae with only 7 individuals recorded (Table 5).

Phylum Infauna Species

Composition
19% ARTHROPODA

ANNELIDA

81%

Figure 4. Phylum Infauna Species Composition

The figure above indicates the phylum infauna species composition

25
where it shows that 80.49 of the total relative abundance or equal to 81% of

the total infauna species was represented by Phylum Annelida while the

remaining 19% was mainly composed of Phylum Arthropoda and the species

identified under this phylum was Uca vocans coming from the Family

Ocypodidae (Figure 4).

II. Epifauna Community

There are 679 individuals from 11 species among the epifauna creatures

sampled in Maasim, Sarangani Province. This community is also comprised of

8 families identified as the Family of Alphidae, Cerithidae, Columbellidae,

Mitridae, Nassariidae, Potamididae, Ocypodidae, and Sesarmidae.

Furthermore, the epifauna organisms are divided into two phyla: Phylum

Arthropoda (21%), and Phylum Mollusca (79%). In accordance with the

International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, 10 epifauna

species are considered "not evaluated” while 1 species is considered as "least

concerned”. This species is Cerithium coralium from Family Cerithidae.

Table 6. Species composition of epifauna benthic macroinvertebrates in

Maasim, Sarangani Province: F – Food, T – Trade, E – Ecologically
Important, NE – Not Evaluated, and LC – Least Concerned

Sites Usage Conservation

English Name Status
LSL LIN ASN F T E (IUCN, 2023)
Phylum Arthropoda

Family Alphidae
Alpheus strenuus Snowflake - + + / NE
Snapping
shrimp
Family Ocypodidae

Uca vocans Orange fiddler + + + / NE

crab

26
 Family Sesarmidae

Neosarmatium smithi Mangrove crabs + + + / NE

Perisesarma samawati Red claw + + + / NE

mangrove crabs

Phylum Mollusca

Family Cerithidae

Cerithium coralium Cerith snail + + + / LC

Clypeomorus petrosa Stony cerith + + + / NE

Clypeomorus Necklace cerith + - - / NE

batillariaeformis

Family Columbellidae

Mitrella eximia Dove snail + + + / NE

Family Mitridae

Strigatella paupercula None + - - / NE

Family Nassariidae

Nassarius candens Nassa mudsnail + - - / NE

Family Potamididae

Terebralia sulcata Sulcate swamp + + + / NE

cerith

SUB-TOTAL 10 8 8

Table 6. Species composition continuation…

Maasim Sarangani Province varies considerably in benthic

macroinvertebrates species (1 to 14 species) (Table 6). A total of 679 epifauna

species coming from 11 families and 123 infauna species coming from 4 families

were identified in the sampling sites. The most diverse families found are:

Cerithidae (3 species), followed by Sesarmidae (2 species), while the rest of the

27
families only have one species. Most of the species (over 10 species) were

recorded at site one (Barangay Lumasal).

While one species of family Potamididae were obtained from two other

sites specifically at mangrove areas of Barangay Tinoto. The long-spired pros

branch, Terebralia sulcata (Born, 1778) occurs in the mangrove areas in large

numbers particularly in most types of muddy substrates. Terebralia sulcata is

Phylum
proposed as a biological indicator Epifauna
in pollution Species
studies because of its fast growth
Composition
and distributional range (Masagca 2000).

21% ARTHROPODA

MOLLUSCA

79%

Figure 5. Phylum Epifauna Species Composition

Figure 5 presents the phylum epifauna species composition where it

shows that 78.94 of the total relative abundance or equal to 79% of the total

epifauna species was represented by Phylum Mollusca, 19% of the total

composition was represented by Subphylum Crustacea while the remaining 2%

was mainly composed of subphylum Phylum Arthropoda. The most abundant

epifauna species identified was Cerithium coralium from Family Cerithidae with

128 individuals or equal to 18.85% of the total species composition.

28
 In reference to the IUCN red list data base, there were no benthic

macroinvertebrates species in mangrove areas of Maasim under critical status.

Most species identified was either categorized as Not Evaluated (NE) and Least

Concern (LC) (see appendix for more data).

Infauna Species Usage

T - Trade
50% 50% E - Ecologically Impor-
tant

Figure 6. Infauna Species Usage

The figure above indicates the infauna species usage where among the 4

identified species recorded in the mangrove areas of Maasim, 2 species or equal

to 50% of the total composition were identified as ecologically important while the

remaining 50% (2 species) were used for trading. Apparently, there were no

infauna species identified as a food source in the area (Figure 6).

Epifauna Species Usage

F - Food
45% 36%
T - Trade
E - Ecologically
Important
18%

29
 Figure 7. Epifauna Species Usage

The figure above indicates the epifauna species usage where among the

11 identified species recorded in the mangrove areas of Maasim, 5 species or

equal to 46% of the total composition were identified as ecologically important,

36% (4 species) were identified as a food source while the remaining 18% or

equal to 2 species were used for trading. Apparently, there were no infauna

species identified as a food source (Figure 7).

e. f. g.
a. c. d.
b.

h. j.
i.

n.
l. m.
k.

Figure 8. Macrobenthic invertebrates found in Mangrove Areas of Maasim

a. Pontrodilus litoralis – 70mm, b. Sipunculus nudus – 67mm, c. Namalycastis

hawaiiensis – 81mm, d. Mitrella eximia – 12mm, e. Terabralia sulcata –
17mm, f. Clypeomorus petrosa – 14.5mm, g. Clypeomorus batillariaefirmis –
16mm, h. Nasarius candens – 15.5 mm, i. Strigatella paupercula – 16.5mm, j.
Cerithium coralium – 19mm, k. Uca vocans – 20mm, l. Neosarmatium smithi –
21.5mm, m. Perisesarma samawati – 20.5mm, n. Alpheus strenuus – 9.5mm

Table 7. Species abundance of infauna benthic macroinvertebrates

30
 Mean % Relative
Species LSL LIN ASN
Abundance Abundance
Namalycastis
1.17 - - 0.39 5.83 %
hawaiiensis
Pontodrilus litoralis 2.33 0.67 1.33 1.44 21.67 %
Sipunculus nudus 3.33 3.83 3.33 3.5 52.50 %
Uca vocans 1.5 1.33 1.17 1.33 20.00 %
Grand Total 8.33 5.83 5.83 6.67 100 %
Table 7 implies that 52.50 % of all infauna composition was represented

by Sipunculus nudus (peanutworm) from Family Sipunculidae thus dominating

the area of Maasim. It has a total number of 66 individuals. On the other hand,

the least diverse species was composed of Namalycastis hawaiiensis coming

from Family Nereididae with only 7 individual counts representing 5.83 % of the

total population. The total mean abundance of infauna species was 41 during the

sampling period.

Table 8. Species abundance of epifauna invertebrates

Mean % Relative
Species LSL LIN ASN
Abundance Abundance
Alpheus strenuous - 1.50 1.33 0.94 2.51 %

Cerithium coralium 8.50 5.33 7.33 7.06 18.73 %

Clypeomorus 1.50 - - 0.50 1.33 %

batillariaeformis

Clypeomorus petrosa 11.67 1.00 1.33 4.67 12.39 %

Mitrella eximia 6.17 0.83 1.33 2.78 7.37 %

Nassarius candens 0.83 - - 0.28 0.74 %

Neosarmatium smithi 0.83 0.83 - 0.56 1.47 %

Perisesarma samawati 1.33 2.33 2.83 2.17 5.75 %

Strigatella paupercula 5.83 4.83 4.83 5.17 13.72 %

Terebralia sulcata 6.56 17.40 %

7.67 6.33 5.67

31
 Ucan vocans 5.00 8.00 8.00 7.00 18.58 %

Grand Total 49.33 31.00 32.67 37.67 100 %

Table 8 implies that 18.73 % of all epifauna composition was represented

by Cerithium coralium (cerith snail) from Family Cerithidae, thus dominating the

area of Maasim. It has a total number of 128 individuals. On the hand, the least

diverse species was composed of Nassarius candens coming from Family

Nassariidae with only 5 individual counts representing 0.74 % of the total

population. The total mean abundance of epifauna benthic macroinvertebrates

was 37.67 during the sampling period.

I. Infauna Community Abundance

Infauna Monthly Abundance Mean Infauna Abundance (ind/ m3)

(ind/m3)
3.5 2.35 2.33
3.00
3 2.78 2.3
2.67 2.67
2.25 2.22
2.5 2.17 1.94333333333
2 2 333 2.2 2.17 2.17
2
1.83 1.83 1.83 2.15
1.5
OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER MEAN 2.1
2.05
LSL LIN ASN OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER MEAN

Figure 9. Infauna Community Abundance

Infauna organism abundance varies by site and month in Maasim, Sarangani

Province mangrove habitats (Figure 9). Lumasal has the highest abundance in

October with 2.67 ind/m3, followed by Linao (2.00 ind/m3) and Asnalang (1.83

ind/m3). Lumasal maintained to have the highest abundance of infauna

organisms the following month, with 3.00 ind/m 3 followed by Asnalang (2.17

32
ind/m3) and Linao (1.83 ind/m 3). December had identical result in October for

infauna abundance with Lumasal having 2.67 ind/m 3, followed by Linao (2.00

ind/m3) and Asnalang (1.83 ind/m3).

From October to December, the mean monthly abundance of infauna in

Maasim mangrove regions is 2.17 ind/m 3, 2.33 ind/m3, and 2.17 ind/m3,

respectively. Lumasal has 2.78 ind/m 3, Linao acquires 1.94 ind/m3, and Asnalang

has an average infauna abundance of 1.94 ind/m 3. Interestingly, the abundance

of infauna species determined by the mean data from three months of sampling

from three chosen mangrove sites was 2.22 ind/m3.

II. Epifauna Community Abundance

Epifauna Monthly Abundance Mean Epifauna Abundance

(ind/m2) (ind/m2)
20.00 19.00 14
18.00 13.50
16.17 16.45 13.5
16.00
14.17
13
14.00
10.89 12.56
11.33 11.83
12.00 10.50 12.5 12.28
10.00 10.17 10.83 10.33 11.89
12
9.00
8.00
OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER MEAN 11.5
LSL LIN ASN
11
OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER MEAN

Figure 10. Epifauna Community Abundance

In Maasim, Sarangani Province mangrove ecosystems, epifauna organism

abundance alters by site and month just like it does for infauna species (Figure

10). With a 19.00 ind/m2 abundance, Lumasal leads Asnalang (11.33 ind/m 2) and

Linao (10.17 ind/m2) in October. With 16.17 ind/m 2, Lumasal continued to have

the highest infauna organism abundance the next month, followed by Asnalang
33
(10.50 ind/m2) and Linao (9.00 ind/m 2). Epifauna abundance decreased

significantly in December, with Lumasal having 14.17 ind/m 2, Linao having 11.83

ind/m2, and Asnalang having 10.83 ind/m 2. Based in figure 11, which depicts a

graph of epifauna abundance, the number of individuals declined in November

but increased significantly in December.

The mean monthly abundance of epifauna in Maasim mangrove areas

ranged from 13.50 ind/m2 in October to 11.89 ind/m 2 in December. Asnalang has

an average infauna abundance of 10.89 ind/m 2, 11.45 ind/m2 in Lumasal, and

10.33 ind/m2 in Linao. It's interesting to note that the mean data from three

months of sampling at the three selected mangrove locations revealed 12.56

ind/m2 as the abundance of infauna species.

Diversity Indices LSL LIN ASN MSM Status

Evenness_e^H/S 0.88 0.85 0.88 0.87 High Evenness
Low Species
Margalef 1.07 0.68 0.82 0.85
Richness

Shannon_H 1.26 0.80 0.97 1.01 Medium diversity

Dominance_D 0.318 0.521 0.422 0.420 Low Dominance

Table 9. Diversity Indices of Infauna species.

Table 9 shows the diversity indices of infauna species in three different

sites. A total of 123 infauna individuals were identified in the study sites were 53

of it was recorded in site 1, 32 individuals in site 2 while 38 individuals were

recorded in site 3. Based on the total numbers of infauna species recorded,

34
Maasim has a high evenness in terms of relative values based on the criteria of

Pielou Eveness Index Criteria (Odum, 1971) with 0.87 evenness value. Shannon

index were also utilized in infauna community and based on the results, infauna

species in Maasim falls under the category of high species diversity based on the

criteria of Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index (Shannon, 1948) having a mean

value of 1.01 However, when it comes to Margalef index, all of the three sites fall

under low diversity averaging less than 8 index value. Infauna species in Maasim

also falls under low dominance with only 0.420 based on the criteria of Simpson

Dominance Index Value Criteria (Firmaningrum et al 2021)

Table 10. Diversity Indices of Epifauna species.

Diversity Indices LSL LIN ASN MSM Status

Evenness_e^H/
0.72 0.81 0.80 0.78 High Evenness
S
Low Species
Margalef 2.10 1.97 1.80 1.96
Richness

Shannon_H 1.91 1.91 1.85 1.89 Medium diversity

Dominance_D 0.152 0.162 0.164 0.160 Low Dominance

The table above presents the diversity indices of epifauna species in three

different sites from October-December sampling period (Table 10). A total of 679

epifauna individuals were identified in the study sites were 297 of it was recorded

in site 1 (Lumasal), 186 was recorded in site 2 (Linao) and 196 were recorded in

site 3 (Asnalang). Based on the results, site 2 and 3 has almost identical

evenness with 0.81 and 0.80 respectively while site 1 has the least value of

35
evenness with only 0.72. Maasim has a high evenness based on the criteria of

Pielou Eveness Index Criteria (Odum, 1971). Moreover, the dominance value of

site 2 and 3 also have also almost identical value with 0.162 and 0.164

respectively, since these two sites are only meters away from each other.

Meanwhile, site 1 has the least value of dominance with only 0.152. The man

dominance in Maasim falls under the category of medium dominance based on

the criteria of Simpson Dominance Index Value Criteria (Firmaningrum et al

2021). The Margalef and Shannon Diversity Index were also calculated using the

PAST (PALeontological Statistics) software introduced by Hammer et al. (2001)

to determine the diversity of species in the area. Based on the results of

Shannon index, all of the three sampling sites have high level of species diversity

and falls under medium category of relative values (Shannon, 1948). However,

when it comes to Margalef index, all of the three sites fall under low diversity
EPIFAUNA EVENNESS INFAUNA EVENNESS
averaging less than 8 index values (Latumahina ,2020).
0.89
0.85
0.80 0.87
0.75
0.85
0.70
0.65 0.83
LSL LIN ASN MSM LSL LIN ASN MSM

Figure 11. Evenness of Benthic Macroinvertebrates

Evenness refers to the more similar proportion of species in a certain area

(Feinsinge et. al, 2001). For epifauna community, the figure shows that two out

of three sites (site two and three) have even distribution of species (Figure 11).

36
Site one had the lowest value in terms of evenness. Although it has the highest

value in species richness but the species that can be find there is not evenly

distributed. For infauna community, site one and three have even distribution of
Epifauna Margalef Index Infauna Margalef Index
species while site two indicates an uneven distribution of species.
2.30 1.20
2.10 1.00
1.90 0.80
0.60
1.70
0.40
1.50 0.20
LSL LIN ASN MSM
0.00
LSL LIN ASN MSM

Figure 12. Margalef Diversity Index of Benthic Macroinvertebrates

The Margalef index is a measure of species richness that is commonly

used to compare ecological communities in terms of the diversity of their species

(Figure 12). Values of the Margalef index range from 0 to 8 and higher values

indicate a higher diversity of species. A value of 0 indicates a very low diversity

of species, while a value of 8 or greater indicates a very high diversity of species

(Death, 2008; Margalef, 1974). Based on this criteria, level of species diversity in

both epifauna and infauna falls under low diversity averaging not greater than 8

which is too low.

EPIFAUNA SHANNON INFAUNA SHANNON INDEX

INDEX
1.92 1.40
1.20
1.90
1.00
1.88
0.80
1.86 0.60
1.84 0.40
1.82 0.20
LSL LIN ASN MSM 0.00
LSL LIN ASN MSM
37
 Figure 13. Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index of Benthic Macroinvertebrates

The Shannon Diversity Index (sometimes called the Shannon-Wiener

Index) is a way to measure the diversity of species in a community (Figure 13).

The higher the value of H, (where H denotes as Shannon Index) the higher the

diversity of species in a particular community. The lower the value of H, the lower

the diversity. A value of H = 0 indicates a community that has only one species.

Based on the figure above, site one has the most value of Shannon index both

epifauna and infauna having a value of 1.91 and 1.26 respectively. It indicates

that species in site one has higher diversity compared to two other sites. On the

other hand, site 3 has lower Shannon diversity compared to other sites in terms

of epifauna having only a value of 1.85 and site 2 in infauna community also has

the lower diversity having only a value of 0.80. However, based on the criteria of

Shannon diversity index, Maasim indicates higher species diversity for both

epifauna and infauna community for having a mean value of 1.89 and 1.01

respectively falling under the medium category of relative values.

Epifauna Dominance _D Infauna Dominance _D

0.165 0.600
0.500
0.160
0.400
0.155 0.300
0.200
0.150
0.100
0.145 0.000
LSL LIN ASN MSM LSL LIN ASN MSM

Figure 14. Dominance Index of Benthic Macroinvertebrates

38
 Dominance in diversity refers to one taxon that dominates the whole

community completely (Figure 14). The lower the dominance value of species,

the higher the diversity. In this case, both epifauna and infauna species have low

dominance value based on the criteria of Simpson Dominance Index Value

Criteria (Firmaningrum et al 2021) having only a mean value of 0.160 and 0.420

respectively.

Kruskal-Wallis test for equal medians (EPIFAUNA):

H (chi2): 0.6003

Hc (tie corrected): 0.6091

p (same): 0.7375

There is no significant difference between sample medians

Table 11. Kruskal-Wallis Tests of Epifauna Species

To test if benthic macroinvertebrates abundance varied across sampling

sites and seasonal changes, Kruskal-Wallis Test will be utilized using PAST

(PALeontological Statistics). Based on the data, it shows that there is no

significant difference between sample medians in epifauna species where it

means that every species found in one quadrat can also be found in other

quadrats per location (Table 11).

Table 12. Kruskal-Wallis Tests of Infauna Species

Kruskal-Wallis test for equal medians (INFAUNA):

H (chi2): 1.038

39
 Hc (tie corrected): 1.053

p (same): 0.5906

There is no significant difference between sample medians

Table 12 presents the Kruskal-Wallis test of infauna species and has the

same result in epifauna species where it shows infauna species had no

significant difference between sample median where is means that any species

that is present in one quadrat is likewise present in other quadrats per study site.

Field Observations

This research was conducted at three different mangrove areas in

Maasim, Sarangani Province, Philippines. All of the three different sites were

located at a residential coast in which there are people residing in the area. As a

result, the mangroves were noticeably disturbed and there were few cuttings

observed. This was the particular reason why the regeneration rate of seedlings

and saplings were under the category of fair, nearly poor because of the people

residing at the area.

As the researcher conducted this research, the researcher observed that

the children were playing inside the mangrove area where there were seedlings

that was starting to grow, however these seedlings unfortunately disrupted

resulting in a low regeneration rate. The researcher also observed that since the

areas were a residential coast, the wastes especially plastic wastes of those

residing in the area. Below are some photos that will justify the observations of

the researcher.

40
 CHAPTER V

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter presents the conclusions, and recommendations based on

the analysis and interpretation of the gathered data of this study.

Conclusions

Based on the data gathered, analyzed and interpreted, the following findings are

listed:

1. A total of 14 benthic macroinvertebrate species belonging to eleven (11)

families were identified in three different sites in Maasim, Sarangani

Province. 11 species were identified as epifauna while 4 species were

identified as infauna. Uca vocans from family Ocypodidae found in both

epifauna and infauna community. These benthic macroinvertebrates are

as follows:

FAMILY Species

FAMILY Alpheidae Alpheus strenuus

FAMILY Cerithidae Cerithium coralium

Clypeomorus petrosa

Clypeomorus batillariaeformis

FAMILY Columbellidae Mitrella eximia

41
 FAMILY Mitridae Strigatella paupercula

FAMILY Nassariidae Nassarius candens

FAMILY Ocypodidae Uca vocans

FAMILY Potamididae Terebralia sulcata

FAMILY Sesarmidae Neosarmatium smithi

Perisesarma samawati

FAMILY Megascolecidae Pontodrilus litoralis

FAMILY Nereididae Namalycastis hawaiiensis

FAMILY Sipunculidae Sipunculus nudus

Among these species, 18.85 % of all epifauna species composition was

represented by Family Cerithidae, thus dominating the area of Maasim in

epifauna community. The most dominant species of Family Cerithidae is

Cerithium coralium (cerith snails), having a total number of 127 out of 679

individual species. On the other hand, 53.66 % of the total infauna species were

represented by Family Sipunculidae. The most dominant species was

Sipunculus nudus or also called as peanut worms with over 66 out of 123

individual species.

2. For diversity indices relative to species richness, based on the total

numbers of epifauna species recorded, site 1 has the most species

richness with a value of 10 out of 11 species in Maasim while site 2 and 3

has the same species with 7 out of 11 species. In terms of infauna

community, site 1 has the highest level of species richness with a value of
42
 4 out of 4 species in Maasim while site 2 and 3 has the same species

richness with 3 out of 4 species. The evenness was almost of the same

value which means that the species are well distributed in all three study

sites. The Shannon index was also utilized were species in Maasim has

medium diversity but low dominance

3. The physico-chemical parameters are as follows.

Physicochemical
SITE 1 SITE 2 SITE 3 MEAN ± SD
Parameters
Temperature 28.7˚C 30.6˚C 28.2˚C 29.2˚C ±
1.27
Dissolved Oxygen 7.25 mg/L 6.59 7.33 mg/L 7.06 mg/L ±
mg/L 0.41
pH 7.46 8.06 7.03 7.52 ± 0.52

Salinity 24.6 ppt 25.8 ppt 29.9 ppt 26.8 ppt ±

2.78
Class Waters SA SA SA SA

4. The condition of mangrove areas in Maasim are good in terms of crown

cover and excellent in height, however the regeneration rate of mangrove

seedlings and saplings are in the category of fair condition which ranges

not exceeding 5% total regeneration. This is because the areas are

residential coast which were concluded that the areas are noticeable

moderately disturbed and observed few cuttings.

5. The water class in Maasim based on the physico-chemical parameters fall

under the category of SA by the DAO-DENR which means that water is

designated as local or marine parks, reserves, sanctuaries and other

areas established by law (Presidential Proclamation 1801 and other

43
 existing laws) and/or declared as such by appropriate agencies, LGUs,

etc.

Recommendation

Based on the findings, the following recommendations were made:

1. The researcher proposes to have an active restoration of mangroves in

the area in order to replenish the growth of new seedlings and saplings of

mangrove area so that in the near future, the results of regeneration rate

will increase.

2. The researcher also proposes to conduct more study on the biodiversity of

benthic macroinvertebrates in Maasim, Sarangani Province. Not just in

mangroves but in another marine ecosystem also considering also the

night time conduction since this research instigate a day time conduction

which means that nocturnal species possibly wasn’t record during the

sampling period.

3. Further study on the waste management and stabilization of water quality

to ensure long term richness of benthic macroinvertebrates diversity in

different site in Maasim, Sarangani Province should be enforced.

4. The researcher also proposes to conduct education seminars to the

residents living in the study area in order to teach the proper waste

disposal because it is affecting the condition of mangrove areas and

abundance of benthic macroinvertebrates in the area.

44
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