SPECIES RICHNESS OF MACROLICHENS IN MT. SAPINIT, SITIO DAGULOS, LA ROXAS, MARAMAG, BUKIDNON

Abstract

The species richness of macrolichens in Mt. Sapinit, SitioDagulos, and MaramagBukidnon was investigated. The main objective of the study is to determine the species richness of macrolichens in the vicinity of Mt. Sapinit. Transect walk and quadrat sampling were carried out in the collection of macrolichens. The gathering and identification of specimens collected was based on standard taxonomical procedure. Results of the study revealed a total of 20 species classified into 7 genera and 13 families. The most family-rich species belong to the family Lobariaceae, and the least family-rich belong to Ramalinaceae, Collemataceae, and Dictyonemaceae. Most of the epiphytic macrolichens belong to the family Parmeliaceae, which dominates the entire montane forest. The distribution of macrolichens across the area occurs in the bark of the tree, logs and twigs, and in tree branches.Elevation also have impact to the growth of lichen species. Higher elevations appear to provide suitable condition for many lichen species to thrive. Thus, the need to preserve the forest ecosystem is essential in order to conserve the lichen communities.