Diversity and Taxonomy of Basidiomycetous Fungi at the Northeastern Side of Quezon Protected Landscape, Southern Luzon, Philippines

Abstract

The present study was conducted primarily, to determine the diversity of basidiomycetous fungi and their taxonomy, in the northeastern side of Quezon Protected Landscape, bordering the municipalities of Pagbilao, Padre Burgos and Atimonan in Quezon province, Southern Philippines. Ten quadrats measuring 10 m × 15 m with an interval of 50 m were established from a transect line set up from the baseline to the peak of the landscape. Species of basidiomycetous fungi were pre-identified in the field. Substratum, form, texture, size, color and other noteworthy characteristics were recorded during the time of collection. Confirmation of identities was done using published textbooks, literature and consultation with mycology expert. A total of 863 individuals of basidiomycetous fungi were collected and identified belonging to 19 different families, 31 genera and 53 species. Polyporaceae family has the highest number of species representing 30% of the total number of individuals documented. Most of the species belong to Hexagonia and Polyporus genera. The current research revealed that most of the substrates used by these fungal organisms are woody substrate, specifically rotten woods. The results of Shannon-Wiener diversity index showed that the area has a high basidiomycetous fungal diversity. There was also a high species richness of these fungal organisms, but there was a low dominance and the species were not evenly distributed in the area. As this area is open for hikers, it is recommended that a continuous monitoring of the macrofungi community be done for sustainability and conservation.