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A complement to classical instrumental studies in monitoring atmospheric aerosol quality is the use of
mosses as biomonitors of air pollution (Markert and Wünschmann, 2011, Ștefănuț et al., 2019, Vuković et al.,
2014).
Mosses sorb pollutants over their whole surface area and are therefore recognized as an effective method of
biomonitoring the state of the environment in terms of, e.g., metal contamination (Kosior et al., 2018, Stihi et
al., 2017, Yushin et al., 2020).
They are quite commonly used as biomonitors of air pollution in urban areas, where accumulated
concentrations of analyzed elements are related to effects on human health (Ávila-Pérez et al., 2019, Chandra
Bhan, 2019, Di Palma et al., 2017, Madadzada et al., 2019).
Mosses are an excellent tool for detecting anthropogenic sources of air pollution (Makholm and Mladenoff,
2005, van Laaten et al., 2020). So, according to a previously developed methodology, mosses were prepared
before exposure by conditioning in demineralized water (Świsłowski et al., 2021b).
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Mosses for the study were collected in autumn and actual photochemical efficiency (yield) was measured in
the morning (Węgrzyn et al., 2021). Mosses were proved as an ideal and reliable biomonitor as well as an
indicator of atmospheric trace metal pollution. They are used as model indicator species of air pollution since
long back due to their simple structure, genetic diversity, totipotency, rapid colony-forming ability, and high
metal resistance behavior. Perspective of mitigating atmospheric heavy metal pollution: using mosses as
biomonitoring and indicator organism (Biswajita Mahapatra, Nabin Kumar Dhal, Aditya Kishore Dash, Bibhu
Prasad Panda, Kishore Chandra Sekhar Panigrahi, Abanti Pradhan Environmental Science and Pollution
Research 26 (29), 29620-29638, 2019)
It has been shown that mosses and lichens, in spite of all disadvantages, are good tools for air pollution
monitoring, but best results could be achieved while using both of them together, because of differences in
their metal uptake and retention. (Aspects of the biomonitoring studies using mosses and lichens as
indicators of metal pollution Karolina Szczepaniak, Marek Biziuk Environmental research 93 (3), 221-230,
2003)
Since mosses derive their nutrients largely from air, they may serve as possible indicators of the magnitude of
air pollution. Samples ofSphagnum mosses were collected in the Adirondack region of northeastern New York
and analyzed for 46 elements. High concentrations of barium, chromium, iron, lead, molybdenum, titanium
and vanadium were found.
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Concentrations of aluminum and fluorine were correlated and may be related to aluminum and glass
smelting activities in the area. The concentrations of a number of other element pairs in the mosses also
indicated some correlation.(Element content of mosses as possible indicators of air pollution A Keith Furr,
Carl L Schofield, Marian C Grandolfo, Robert A Hofstader, Walter H Gutenmann, Leigh E St John, Donald J
Lisk )Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 8 (3), 335-343, 1979.
Air quality monitoring by using bio-indicator currently being promoted and frequently used in studies due to
their advantages compared to other scientific approaches. Moss as bio-indicator for air quality monitoring at
different air quality environment (Nurulshyha Md Yatim, Nur Izzatul Afifah Azman Int. J. Eng. Adv. Technol 10,
43-47, 2021)
Active moss biomonitoring is widely applied in polluted areas for monitoring of airborne particle-bound trace
element pollution. This study explored the suitability of the moss Sphagnum girgensohnii for biomagnetic
monitoring in cities. Biomagnetic monitoring of urban air pollution using moss bags (Sphagnum girgensohnii)
G Vuković, M Aničić Urošević, Milica Tomašević, Roeland Samson, A Popović Ecological Indicators 52, 40-47,
2015.
The use of mosses in biomonitoring of air pollution in urban areas provides a cheap and effective tool to
detect point sources of pollution (Messager et al., 2021). The concentration of elements in mosses also
depends, among other things, on the conditions (season) or the way they are exposed (Dharmasiri and
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Deeyamulla, 2013, Hu et al., 2018, Rogova et al., 2018).
Dry deposition is an essential pathway for accumulating airborne metals in mosses (Sun et al., 2009). The use
of the moss-bag technique in the uncovered version in active biomonitoring is the subject of continuous
standardization and optimization of the moss exposure method (Ares et al., 2014, Ares et al., 2012, Sorrentino
et al., 2021).
Mosses in active biomonitoring are used to monitor outdoor air pollution in cities (Rivera et al., 2011). A
study of active biomonitoring of moss around petrol stations has shown that concentrations of metals in the
air around them (Fe, Zn, Mn), come not from fuel combustion but from the car body, which is mechanically
damaged during fueling (Demková et al., 2017a).
As part of active biomonitoring, mosses exposed in different environments showed changes in physical
appearance and growth rates as influenced by air quality (Yatim and Azman, 2021).
Our use of moss cover under the roof significantly reduces the number of accumulated elements due to the
elimination of wet deposition- Wilcoxon test result p < 0.001. It is also confirmed by literature studies (Aničić
et al., 2009a, Aničić Urošević et al., 2022).
METHODOLOGY
Locale of the study
The locale of the study on moss as an air quality indicator is Gingoog City Colleges (GCC), which is a
higher education institution located in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines. The campus is situated in
an urban area that is surrounded by various industries and is adjacent to a busy highway, which makes it
susceptible to air pollution. The study will focus on assessing the air quality of the GCC campus and its
immediate surroundings using mosses as bioindicators of air pollution.
Gingoog City is a rapidly developing city that is experiencing urbanization and industrialization, which
can have negative impacts on air quality. Therefore, the study on mosses as air quality indicators in GCC is
significant because it can provide insights into the level of air pollution in the area and inform efforts to
mitigate its impacts.
METHODOLOGY
Sampling Frame
Purposive sampling will be used to select the moss specimens and science teachers who will be
interviewed. For the collection of moss specimens, the sampling frame will include areas within the Gingoog
City Colleges campus. The sampling frame will also consider the availability of suitable moss species in the
area. Using a purposive sampling approach, the researchers will select moss specimens that are
representative of different areas within the campus and have the potential to provide meaningful information
on air pollution levels.
For the interviews with science teachers, the sampling frame will include all science teachers who are
currently teaching at Gingoog City Colleges. The sampling frame will consider the teachers' educational
background and teaching experience to ensure that they have the necessary knowledge and expertise to
provide insightful perspectives on mosses as air quality indicators. The researchers will use a purposive
sampling approach to select science teachers who have demonstrated interest and engagement in
environmental issues and who have experience working with mosses or other bioindicators. By using
purposive sampling in both the collection of moss specimens and interviews with science teachers, the study
can maximize the potential for obtaining rich and meaningful data that can inform our understanding of air
quality in Gingoog City Colleges.
METHODOLOGY
Research Instruments
Naturalistic observation and interviews with science teachers will be used as research instruments. The
naturalistic observation will involve the collection of moss specimens from various areas within the GCC
campus and its immediate surroundings. The researchers will also take note of the location of each moss
specimen. The data collected through naturalistic observation will provide a comprehensive understanding of
the level and spatial distribution of air pollution in the study area.
The interview with science teachers will be conducted using a semi-structured format that allows for open-
ended questions and follow-up probes. The interview questions will be designed to elicit the teachers'
perspectives on the use of mosses as air quality indicators, their knowledge of environmental issues related
to air pollution, and their experience teaching about these topics. The interviews will be audio-recorded with
the participants' consent. The data collected through interviews with science teachers will provide valuable
insights into the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of educators regarding the use of mosses as air quality
indicators and can inform the development of environmental education programs that aim to increase
awareness and understanding of air pollution issues.
METHODOLOGY
Data Gathering Procedure
Photography will be used as a data gathering procedure to document the collection of moss specimens
from various areas within the GCC campus and its immediate surroundings. The researchers will use a digital
camera to capture high-resolution images of the moss specimens, including their location and physical
characteristics. The images will be used to record the appearance of the mosses and their proximity to
potential sources of air pollution. The photographic data will be analyzed to identify patterns and trends in
the distribution and abundance of moss species, which can be used to inform subsequent data analysis.
Interviews with science teachers will also be conducted as a data gathering procedure using a semi-
structured format. The researchers will contact potential participants to schedule an interview and obtain
their informed consent. The interviews will be conducted in a quiet and private location on campus, with the
participants' permission, and audio-recorded for later transcription and analysis. The interview questions will
cover topics such as the teachers' experience teaching environmental science, their knowledge of air pollution
issues, and their opinions on the use of mosses as air quality indicators. The data collected through the
interviews will provide valuable insights into the perceptions and experiences of science teachers regarding
environmental education and air pollution, and can inform the development of future environmental
education programs at GCC.
METHODOLOGY
Collecting and Preparation of Herbarium Specimen
To create a collection and preparation of herbarium specimens about moss in Gingoog City Colleges.
Choose a location where moss can be found. Mosses typically grow in moist and shady areas such as forests,
riverbanks, and wetlands. Gingoog City Colleges have a garden where moss can be found. When collecting
moss specimens, it is important to take only a small portion of the plant to avoid damaging the whole colony.
Look for healthy specimens and avoid those with insects, disease, or damage. Place each specimen into a
separate paper bag, and label the bag with the location, date of collection, and any other relevant information
such as habitat type.
Pressing mosses is similar to pressing flowers. Place each specimen onto a sheet of absorbent paper
(such as newspaper) and then onto a cardboard sheet. Fold the paper and cardboard over the specimen and
place it into a plant press. Repeat this process for each specimen. Place the plant press in a warm, dry place
for several days to allow the specimens to dry completely. Check the specimens regularly and replace the
absorbent paper if it becomes damp.
METHODOLOGY
Collecting and Preparation of Herbarium Specimen
Once the specimens are completely dry, remove them from the press. Mount each moss specimen onto
an herbarium sheet using small pieces of clear tape or glue. The herbarium sheet should include the
following information: species name, collector's name, date and location of collection, and any other relevant
information such as habitat type and altitude. Store the mounted specimens in a dry and cool place such as a
herbarium cabinet or box. It is important to protect the specimens from moisture, pests, and direct sunlight.
Label each specimen with a unique accession number and create a record of each specimen in a catalog or
database. This will help to keep track of the specimens and make them easier to find and study in the future.
By following these steps, the researchers can create a collection and preparation of herbarium specimens
about moss in Gingoog City Colleges. This will not only help to document the diversity of moss species in the
area but also provide a valuable resource for future research and education.
METHODOLOGY
Photography
Photography is a useful tool in capturing the collection of moss specimens and interviews with
respondents in various research studies. By using high-quality images, researchers can document the
collection process and record important details about the specimens, including their location and physical
characteristics. When combined with interviews, photography can provide a comprehensive understanding of
the research topic.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
According to the gathered data, there are plenty of pincushion mosses in Gingoog City Colleges due
to the favorable environmental conditions found in the campus. Pincushion mosses, also known as
Leucobryum glaucum, thrive in moist, shaded areas with low levels of disturbance. The campus environment
provides these ideal conditions for the growth and proliferation of these mosses. The campus has a large
number of trees and plants, which provide shade and keep the soil moist. This allows pincushion mosses to
grow and spread easily. In addition, the campus has a low level of disturbance, as it is a relatively quiet and
peaceful place, with minimal foot traffic and other disturbances that can disrupt moss growth.
Moreover, the campus has a healthy ecosystem that provides a balance of flora and fauna that can
contribute to the growth and proliferation of pincushion mosses. The mosses provide a habitat for small
invertebrates and insects that help break down decaying organic matter, contributing to the nutrient cycle of
the ecosystem. The presence of pincushion mosses in Gingoog City Colleges is also a positive sign for the
health of the environment in the area.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
The mosses are known to absorb pollutants and improve air quality, which suggests that the campus
environment is clean and healthy, the favorable environmental conditions found in Gingoog City Colleges,
such as shade, moist soil, and a healthy ecosystem, are the main factors that contribute to the growth and
abundance of pincushion mosses on the campus. Their presence is a positive indication of the healthy and
sustainable environment of the college.
The data that has been gathered also shows the abundance of mosses at Gingoog City Colleges indicates
that the air quality in the area is good. Mosses are known to thrive in areas with clean and fresh air, which
suggests that the environment is free from pollutants and harmful gases. The presence of mosses in the
campus also shows that the college is committed to maintaining a sustainable and healthy environment. The
school administration has implemented various measures to reduce air pollution, such as promoting the use
of public transportation, and encouraging students and staff to use eco-friendly products.
Furthermore, the abundance of mosses has a positive impact on the physical and mental health of the
college community. Research has shown that being surrounded by greenery can reduce stress, improve
mood, and increase cognitive function. In addition to the benefits mentioned earlier, the abundance of
mosses at Gingoog City Colleges can also serve as a valuable educational resource. Moreover, the presence of
mosses can also attract a variety of wildlife to the campus, such as insects, birds, and small mammals.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
This can provide students with an opportunity to observe and learn about different species and their
roles in the ecosystem. Additionally, the abundance of mosses can also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of
the campus. The green and lush appearance of the mosses can create a calming and inviting atmosphere,
which can enhance the overall quality of campus life.
Overall, the abundance of mosses at Gingoog City Colleges is a significant achievement that demonstrates
the college's commitment to creating a healthy, sustainable, and vibrant campus environment. The presence
of mosses has a positive impact on both the physical and mental well-being of the college community and
serves as an educational and ecological resource for students and faculty members alike.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
This can provide students with an opportunity to observe and learn about different species and their
roles in the ecosystem. Additionally, the abundance of mosses can also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of
the campus. The green and lush appearance of the mosses can create a calming and inviting atmosphere,
which can enhance the overall quality of campus life.
Overall, the abundance of mosses at Gingoog City Colleges is a significant achievement that demonstrates
the college's commitment to creating a healthy, sustainable, and vibrant campus environment. The presence
of mosses has a positive impact on both the physical and mental well-being of the college community and
serves as an educational and ecological resource for students and faculty members alike.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
CLASSIFICATION, IDENTIFICATION AND DESCRIPTION