The population and habitat of Saurauia bontocensis Merr (degway) in Tadian, Mountain Province, Philippines

Any conservation initiative aimed at protecting endemic and threatened species must consider their population and habitat. Saurauia bontocensis Merr is an endemic species in the Philippines currently classified as vulnerable and needs conservation. Hence, this study sought information about its population and habitat preference in Tadian, Mountain Province. Results revealed the presence of 36 S. bontocensis plants in the 17 quadrats that were established; 33 are in the tree phase, while three (3) are poles. Most of the trees are old and need to be rejuvenated and propagated to increase their population, especially because no wildlings/seedlings are growing in the area. Morisitas index and chi-square results showed that the plants are randomly distributed in the moist areas of the forest with an elevation ranging from 1273–1651 masl, a temperature of 19.9 oC to 26.2 oC, a humidity of 65.2%-97.9%, a light intensity of 75fc–5295 fc, a soil moisture of 1%-8%, and a soil pH of 3-6.2. They thrive on acidic and loamy soil and survive under varied light intensities. In general, they are adapted to the environmental conditions of the broad-leafed portions of montane forest. With the current population of S. bontocensis, off-site conservation initiatives, with due consideration to the environmental factors of its habitat, should be conducted to increase its population and prevent local extinction. With the right conservation efforts, there is hope for the rejuvenation and propagation of this species.