IX. DOMINANT WOODY SPECIES OF MOUNT MAYON FOREST LANDSCAPE, LUZON, PHILIPPINES

摘要

Seventy-one woody species belonging to forty-nine genera and thirty-three families are found along the altitudinal range of 500-2200 m on the slopes of Mt Mayon, Luzon Island, Philippines. Three vertical zones of woody vegetation named after the dominant species could be identified along this altitudinal range: I Erythrina-Ficus-Glochidion zone (500-800 m); II Astronia-Cyathea-Weinmannia zone (900-1500 m); III Eurya-Clethra-Neonauclea-Fagraea-Vaccinium zone (1600-2200 m). Many mountains in the Bicolregion are left unattended with respect to biodiversity studies despite the threatening destruction and extinction of biota either through natural or anthropogenic causes. Mt Mayon (2462 m alt.), an active volcano renowned throughout the world for its beautiful cone, is one of these. The vegetation is less known and is only described as predominantly dominated by dwarf trees and grasses. Settlers are found along the immediate boundary of Mt Mayon. Illegal collection of Mt Mayon resources has been reported. Habitat destruction and species extinction are also evident. Hence, biodiversity assessment along altitudinal zones of the volcano is imperative. Results would be very relevant in land use planning and zonation of mountain landscapes which are vitalto species and habitat conservation and satisfaction of people residing in the vicinities.