Influence of Disturbance on Macrofungi Diversity in Mt. Bangay, Aborlan, Palawan

Abstract

A macrofungi survey was conducted in the first and second week of August, 2009 in Mt. Bangay, Aborlan Palawan. The survey generated 58 specimens of which 32 were classified into 21 different genera. The remaining 26 specimens were then assigned into 25 morphotypes base on their morphology. The most common genera found is Cantheralles (4 specimens) and the Ascomycete Cookenia (3 specimens). Most specimens were Basidiomycetes belonging to the genera Ostrea, Copr inns and Polystictus all with 2 specimens each. Based on the number of specimens and genera found in the survey, this study shows that the study site is particularly diverse. Fifty three (53) of the 58 specimens were found in areas with forest cover. A comparison of the four study stations; a forest clearing, a stream valley, a pristine forest and a swidden (kaingin) farmland was made which showed that the distribution of macrofungi is affected by environmental disturbance. The number of specimens is highest in the area that received moderate disturbance such as the forest clearing as against those that receive minimal disturbance such as the pristine forest or those that receive high levels of disturbance such as the swidden (kaingin) farmland. Macrofungal growth also prefers areas with forest cover likely due to abundance of available moisture and moderate light intensity in those areas. It is recommended to extend the area covered by the survey as well as the period of time the survey will be made.