Preliminary Survey of Sea Stars (Asteroidea spp) in Passig Islet, Brgy Bato, Sta. Cruz, Davao Del Sur, Philippines

Sea stars often known as starfish are marine invertebrates that belong to Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Echinodermata, and Class Asteroidea. Sea stars are important in marine ecology and are regarded as keystone species. In Mindanao, there are 2,357 species belonging to the family Astropectinidae, Ophidiasteridae, Oreasteridae, and Acanthasteridae that are already documented. The purpose of this study is to identify sea star species present in certain unexplored places in the region such as Passig Islet, Barangay Bato, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Philippines and produce an infographic (e.g., Poster). Actual specimen collection of Asteroidea species followed the procedure stated in Scott et al. (1994) Visual Encounter Survey (VES). Then, a photograph of the collected specimens was submitted to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Region XI (BFAR) for identification and verification. Results revealed that there are three (3) families of Sea Stars in Passig Islet namely; Archasteridae, Oreasteridae and Ophidiasteridae. In terms of species, there is only one (1) species – Archaster typicus under family Archasteridae, three (3) species namely: Pentaster obtusatus, Protoreaster nodosus, and Culcita novaeguineae under family Oreasteridae and lastly, one (1) species –Linckia laevigata under family Ophidiasteridae. As a marine protected area, policy reviews specifically, re-drafting of the existing zoning maps and activity guidelines that involve biodiversity conservation are highly recommended. Restoration efforts and assessment of marine biodiversity should not only focus on mangrove forest and sea grasses, but also include the sea stars. Lastly, the locals must be involved in strengthening environmental stewardship and tourism development in the islet.