Undergraduate Special Problem
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Item Abundance and composition of the gut contents of orbiculate cardinal fish, Sphaeramia orbicularis (Apogonidae) in Palompon, LeyteCanda, Danielle Clare C. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2017-06)The study was conducted to examine the gut contents of Sphaeramia orbicularis using specimens from catches of a sled trawl survey conducted from June 2011 to May 2012 in Palompon, Leyte. One hundred seventy-one fish specimens were categorized into six different size classes maintaining an interval of 1 cm: 1-1.9 cm, 2-2.9 cm, 3-3.9 cm, 4-4.9 cm, 5-5.9 cm, and 6-6.9 cm. The guts of the fish specimens were isolated and the contents were placed on a petri dish for identification and counting. Based on the observed percentages of chyme, the species consume a large amount of easily digested materials. The increasing number of prey items as size class increases revealed that the smaller fishes prey on smaller organisms while the larger ones prey on the larger counterpart, and thus smaller predators are a subset of larger predators. Apogonids displayed a generalist diet, consisting mostly of demersal plankton and benthic invertebrates.Item Effect of size on spawning of Imbaw, Anodontia edentula (Linnaeus, 1758)Cambel, Marianne P. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2008-04)The effect of shell size to spawning of imbaw, Anodontia edentula was examined. A total of 120 clams with shell length ranging from 34.90 to 68.20 mm were collected. Basing on shell length, 3 class sizes were used to group these clams, namely: < 45 mm, 45-50 mm, and > 50 mm. Thirty-five percent of the clams had shell length of < 45 mm, 21.7% in the range of 45-50 mm, and 43.3% had shell length of > 50 mm. Overall result showed that a high percentage of the clams in the range of 35 to 50 mm responded to spawning induction. Result showed that 41 (98%) of the clams in class size < 45 mm spawned. Twenty-six (100%) of the clams in 45-50 mm spawned and 31 (60%) spawned in class size > 50 mm. A mortality of 2 occurred among the broodstock and had shell lengths of > 50 mm. Among the clams induced to spawn, males predominated in the sample. Only 1 case of hermaphroditism was observed in < 45 mm and no females were observed to spawn. The only immature male in class size < 45 mm has a GSI value of 22.3. The mean GSI value of the 19 immature clams in class size > 50 mm was found to be 23.9 (±7.62).Item Rock-associated Cryptofauna in Seagrass Beds in Taklong Island National Marine Reserve, Guimaras, PhilippinesCamache, Christian M. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2015-06)It has been suggested that cryptofauna makes up the bulk of marine ecosystems. Little is known of the ecology of cryptofauna and the few studies conducted about them stress their importance in the ecology of marine systems. This study was conducted to assess the biodiversity of rock-associated cryptofauna in seagrass beds in the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve (TINMR) and to correlate their abundance and diversity to the rugosity of the substrate. Rock samples were collected from three seagrass beds, namely: Calaparan, Kalirohan, and Bagatnan. The cryptofauna inhabiting the rock samples were extracted using forceps and were then sorted into major taxonomic groups and identified. The density of each taxonomic group, the diversity and similarity indices of and among sites, and the rugosity and volume of the rock samples were calculated. A total of 2,255 individuals were collected belonging to 97 OTUs and eight major taxonomic groups, with a mean density of 1.13±0.51 indiv/mL. Foraminiferans and crustaceans were the most prominent organisms observed in all sites while polychaetes showed significant density variations. Cryptic fauna diversity was low in all sites. Kalirohan had the highest diversity index (H’ = 0.86 ± 0.119) while Calaparan had the lowest (H’ = 0.67 ± 0.125). All sites showed low similarity coefficients with Kalirohan and Bagatnan showing the highest value (31% similarity). No significant correlation was found between the rugosity of rock substrates and density of cryptofauna contrary to expected trend. This suggests that rugosity may not be a key determinant of cryptofaunal abundance and diversity in rock substrates in these seagrass beds.Item Epibiota of Holothuria scabra (Jaeger, 1833) from TINMAR, Southern Guimaras and Sagay Marine Reserve, Negros OccidentalCalizar, Jessica Joyce D. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2013-04)The composition and abundance of epibiota on the sea cucumber Holothuria scabra collected in TINMAR, Southern Guimaras (Panay Gulf, northern Sulu Sea) and Sagay Marine Reserve, Negros Occidental (Visayan Sea), were determined. Epibiotic organisms on 10 Holothuria scabra individuals in each site were detached from the body surface with a fine brush dipped in alcohol. Samples collected were fixed in buffered formalin, followed by counting and identification under light microscopy. Sea cucumber epibionts consisted of photosynthetic protists, mainly diatoms (Phylum/Division Bacillariophyta), and small marine invertebrates (Protozoa, Mollusca, Arthropoda, and Annelida). Some 2,237 epibionts were counted with the diatoms as the most abundant and frequently encountered group. Epibiont species on Holothuria scabra were almost the same in both sites, except for annelids which was only encountered in samples from Sagay. Mean epibiotic abundance of Holothuria scabra from TINMAR was 61 per individual which was about a third of epibiotic abundance on individuals from Sagay (163 per individual). This study provides preliminary information on epibionts present on Philippine holothurians, and will help future researches in this field.Item Relationship of moderate to heavy Trichuris trichiura infection with the packed red cell volume and mental ability of elementary schoolchildren in Miag-ao, IloiloCalibjo, Hartzell M.; Calvo, May Lyn A.; Dizon, Lourdes Anne A.; Garay, Cyrus Q.; Gonzales, Lorenz Alfred B.; Gibraltar, Felli Claire G.; Peralta, Lou Gillyn B.; Spitzer, Mark Manfred B.; Taburaza, Larimee S. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2005-04)Trichuris trichiura commonly known as whipworm is a nematode that infects human particularly primary school-aged children. Studies show that moderate to heavy Trichuris infection may adversely affect the cognitive functions of schoolchildren (Nokes, 1991) and may cause anemia overtime (Politt, 1982). However, this has not been established in the local setting. This led the researchers to locally conduct a study that would primarily determine the relationship of the moderate to heavy intensity of trichuriasis with the mental ability of schoolchildren and with the Packed Red Cell Volume. It also aims to determine if there is a significant difference between the mental ability test scores and the Packed Red Cell Volume of moderate to heavy Trichuris infected group and the non-infected group. Three coastal elementary schools in Miag-ao, Iloilo was chosen as the study sites. These were Miag-ao West Central Elementary School, Igtuba-Guibongan Elementary School, and Bacauan-Mambatad Elementary School. Five hundred twenty five (525) elementary pupils aged 8—14 years had their stool samples examined using Modified Kato Katz to determine the intensity of Trichuris infection. Thirty (30) moderate to heavy Trichuris infected students and another 30 non-infected students were randomly selected as the study sample. Capillary blood samples were collected from the 60-study sample. The packed red cell volume was determined using the Microhematocrit Method and was categorized as normal and below normal. Mental ability of the study sample was measured using the standardized Culture Fair Intelligence Test (CFIT). The test instrument was administered and interpreted by the Psychometricians. The results of the tests consisted of verbal interpretation and was categorized as below average, average and above average. The results showed no significant difference between the moderate to heavy infected group and the non-infected group based on mental ability test verbal interpretation (p= 0.770). The non-infected group even obtained a higher proportion of study samples that were below average CFIT test scores compared with the moderate to heavy infected group. The results of packed red cell volume revealed that all study samples (100%) in the non-infected group had normal Packed Cell Volume (PCV). On the other hand, only 90% of the study samples in the moderate to heavy infected group had normal Packed Cell volume (PCV) while the remaining 10% had below normal PCV. Statistically however, the difference was not significant (p= 0.164). Finally, Linear Regression Analysis showed no linear relationship between mental ability test Deviation Intelligence Quotient and Packed Red Cell Volume among the study samples. The scatter plot diagram showed dispersed distribution of study samples which means weak relationship between the two variables. The insignificant results in this study could be attributed to various confounding variables that were not controlled strictly all throughout the study, as well as the insensitivity of the test instruments used. Thus, the study recommends controlling carefully the various extraneous variables such as socioeconomic conditions, nutritional status of the study sample. The study also recommends the use of more sensitive and specific instruments for measuring the blood level and cognitive functions.Item Phytosociological study in Garantiangan Island, Taklong Island National Marine Reserve (TINMR), Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, PhilippinesCalesterio, Krizha Marie C. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2018-12)Each island has a unique set of characteristics attributed to differences in size, isolation, relief and climate, and origin. Such characteristic influence their floristic composition. Rapid development of tropical islands due to expansion of tourism thus put the flora under risks. In addition, the impact of climate change is also a big factor. There is a need to do baseline studies for proper management and conservation purposes. This study was conducted in Garantiangan Island (a part of Taklong Island National Marine Reserve) in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, Philippines to assess the species composition, and community structure of flora present. Data were collected by establishing random plots from August 2016 to February 2017. Results showed a total of 45 species (7 unidentified) belonging to 26 families, were recorded. Rubiaceae was the most dominant family, having five representative species. Invasive species found were Leucaena leucocephala, and Lantana camara. Floras found belonged to two types of vegetation namely; littoral vegetation: herbaceous strand, littoral shrubland and littoral forest zone and mangrove vegetation. Total stand basal area was 16.63 m2 ha- 1 , with 4985.71 stems ha-1. The total seedling density (1943 individuals ha- 1) > total sapling density (1686 individuals ha- 1) > total tree density (1343 individuals ha- 1) suggests “good” regeneration status. 1. Tarenna littoralis had the highest relative density (18.05%) and frequency (8 %). Terminalia foetidissima had the highest relative dominance (26.70%) and was the most important species (37.04 %). Shannon-Weiner diversity index and Simpson evenness index values recorded were 1.33 and 0.89, respectively, which suggests low diversity and evenness in the island. Given that the biodiversity in the island is threatened, though the results are preliminary and full floral surveys were not carried out, data gathered can serve as a basis for conservation and management actions.Item Analysis of stand basal areas of mangroves in selected sites in the Province of Antique, Panay Island, PhilippinesCalaor, Gazelh Mae T. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2007-04)Mangroves play both an important ecological and economic role. They are valuable to humans and are important component of the natural system. For the past few decades, mangrove forest has been experiencing severe degradation. People often fail to consider the important in the entire ecosystem. Generally, this study aimed to analyzed stand basal areas of mangroves in Antique. The study of basal areas of mangroves can provide an indicating the health condition and overall stands of mangroves in a given area. However few studies have been conducted about this area. Thus, the need for present study to provide an overview of mangrove development in Antique. Information gathered will be useful in the formulation of mangrove measures for the preservation of the remaining mangrove stands in Antique. Specifically, it aimed 1.) to identify the species present in Antique. 2.) to determine the basal areas 3.) to determine the stand basal areas of mangroves. Transect line plot method was used for the study. All sampled sites have been visibly been subjected to human disturbances of varying magnitude. There were 31 true mangroves species identified in the 11 municipalities studied belonging to 14 families. Abundant mangrove forest is in Semirara Island. Caluya with 28 species belonging to 13 families. The family of Rhizophoraceae was the most represented with 7 species identified. Lumnitzera racemosa and Nypa fruticans were found in all municipalities, whereas the least occurring were the Camptostemon philippinensis and Aegiceras floridum found only in Semirara Island. Caluya. Average stand basal area of Antique was 39.49 m2/ha. It ranges from 4.54 m2/ha for the municipality of Bugasong to 214.27 m2ha for the municipality of Semirara Island. Caluya. Average stand basal area per species of Antique Province were ranges from Sonneratia alba at 8.69 m7ha as the highest and the lowest at 0.0036 m2/ha exhibited by Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea. The relatively isolated state of is a good factor in development and establishment of a good mangrove cover. In comparison with other sites in Antique, the stand basal area in Semirara Island, Caluya is much higher reflective of a better and healthier stand.Item Community structure of holothuroids in selected seagrass beds in Taklong Island National Marine Reserve, Guimaras, PhilippinesCalaguing, Aldwyn C. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2018-06)Sea cucumbers are beneficial to mankind commercially as food and medicinal commodity. Overexploitation and illegal catch of these organisms even within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) caused stock depleting and even local extinction of some populations in the country. Monitoring and regular assessment of their population is a must for their proper management and protection. This study investigated the status of holothuroid community within 4 selected seagrass meadows in Taklong Island National Marine Reserve (TINMR), Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. Holothuroid composition and estimates of density, frequency and distribution were determined through plot method. Species identification was based on gross morphology and spicule analysis. There were 40 individuals collected identified as 5 species, namely, Holothuria atra (n = 18), Holothuria pulla (n = 1), Holothuria scabra (n = 5), Bohadschia vitiensis (n = 2) and Synapta maculata (n = 13). The first 4 belonged to Order Aspidochirotida and the last belonged to Order Apodida. Their distribution and community structure in TINMR are likely influenced by the physical and chemical environment, seagrass community poaching, and cryptic behavior.Item Composition and abundance of the stomach contents of Caranx melampygus in Nabinbinan Bay, Nueva Valencia, GuimarasCaigoy, Mary Johnalynn S. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2015-06)Caranx melampygus, a piscivore common in the Indo-Pacific, is an important diurnal predator in coral reefs, but little local information is available on the diet of this fish. This study was done to determine the diet composition and abundance of C. melampygus by examining the stomach contents of specimens collected every 2-4 weeks from catches of fish corals in Southern Guimaras from May 2012 to November 2013. Chyme, fishes, and shrimps were found in the guts of C. melampygus. The Sergestid shrimp Acetes dominated the overall prey composition, followed by penaeid shrimps, and fishes (atherinid, clupeid, engraulid). The mean food count and prey composition varied among small (6-6.9, 7-7.9, 8-8.9), medium (9-9.9, 10-10.9, 1lli.9), and large (12-12.9, 13-13.9, 14-14.9, 15-15.9) fish, suggesting that the food preference of C. melampygus changes as the fish grows.Item Oxygen requirement of Sea Cucumber (Bohadschia marmorata)Cahuya, Jezyl Leigh D. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2017-06)The oxygen consumption of juvenile sea cucumber Bohadschia marmorata was studied in the laboratory. The effects of temperature and body weight on oxygen consumption rate (OCR) were determined by measuring the dissolved oxygen levels using closed bottle respiratory method. Mean weight specific OCR of B. marmorata juveniles was low (9±4 pgO2h-1g-1). The OCR decreased with time from 16.9±9.1 to 6.09±3.86 ugO2h-1g-1 rapidly declining in the first two hours then, more gradually thereafter (R2=-0.92). Factors such as temperature and size affect OCR. Oxygen consumption rate tends to increase with increasing temperature. Bigger animals have low OCR levels than smaller ones (R2=0.32).