Philippine E-Journals

Nematode diversity in mangrove ecosystems

Rachel Tadeo Cabangbang

Discipline: Biology

 

Abstract:

The research investigates nematode diversity in mangrove systems in Brgy. Cagangohan (Panabo City), Brgy J.P. Laurel (Panabo City) and Barangay Lasang (Davao City) respectively.

It identified a total of 49 nematode genera with the most abundant recorded from mangrove sediments as Paracanthonchus. Dichromadora, Viscosia and Pontonema were significantly more diverse in disturbed mangrove areas. Although not statistically significant, these groups numerically dominate the other genera identified in this study.

There was no significant difference in the nematode abundance between different mangrove areas. Using Hill’s index (N0, N1, N2, and N∞) and Shannon’s diversity index (H’) of the three mangrove areas, the diversity values derived show that the three mangrove areas do not differ significantly (P>0.05, ANOVA). Pearson-correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between diversity of nematodes and physic-chemical factors such as temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and total organic matter show significant Pearson- correlation (p>0.01, correlation) with diversity in all mangrove ecosystems.