Assessment of mangroves affected by super typhoon Pablo in Barangay Lucod, Baganga, Davao Oriental

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of super typhoon Pablo on mangrove forests in Barangay Lucod, Baganga, Davao Oriental. The mangroves in this area were severely affected by the typhoon, causing damage to individual trees and altering the overall ecosystem structure. The study aimed to assess the damaged and recovered mangroves in the affected area by measuring various parameters such as tree height, canopy branch length, and density. The study also assessed the density, relative density, frequency, and relative frequency of mangrove species, providing insights into their distribution patterns and abundance within the study area. Mangrove measurements were conducted using standard quadrat sampling methods, with four quadrats established within the study area. The results showed that the mangrove of quadrat 2 had the tallest tree which reached 8.5 m. among all quadrats. In canopy branch length, quadrats 3 and 4 have plants with longer branches (5.26 m and 3.6 m). In terms of density, Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophora stylosa have (0.4 Ind/m²) including Xylocarpus granatum (0.4 Ind/m²). Additionally, the percentage of recovered (55%) and damaged mangroves (45%) in the different quadrats highlighted the ongoing recovery process following the super typhoon. The study contributes valuable information for understanding the impact of natural disasters on mangrove ecosystems and assessing their resilience and recovery mechanisms. The findings can aid in the development of effective conservation and rehabilitation strategies for mangrove forests in typhoon-prone regions in the Philippines.