Species Composition of Bryophytic Flora along Altitudinal Gradient in Mt. Musuan, Bukidnon, Philippines

Abstract

A floristic assessment was conducted in Mt. Musuan Bukidnon, the Philippines – an isolated, low grass-covered andesitic lava dome and tuff cone. Two 50-m transect lines were established in each of the altitudinal gradients (350–400, 401–451, 452–502, 503–553, 554–604, and 605 + masl) in the mountain slope to sample the bryophyte communities. The study compared the bryophyte populations between six altitudinal gradients and analyzed their altitudinal distribution. Results revealed a total of 56 species of bryophytes belonging to 39 genera and 21 families. Of these, 39 are moss species with 29 genera and 16 families. Sixteen (16) species are liverworts with nine genera and four families. One hornwort was encountered. The greatest number of bryophytes were documented between 452–502 masl, whereas the fewest number occurred between 350–400 and 605 masl and near the summit. The two most abundant bryophyte species were Octoblepharum albidum Hedw. and Hyophila involuta (Hook.) A. Jaeger, which are widely distributed in all altitudinal gradients. The findings from this research will offer valuable insights that can promote the implementation of efficient management strategies and initiatives for conserving biodiversity across different altitudinal gradients. This is particularly vital because bryophytes are known to be highly susceptible to human- induced threats and the influences of changing environmental conditions.