Threats on the Natural Stand of Philippine Teak along Verde Island Passage Marine Corridor (VIPMC), Southern Luzon, Philippines

Abstract

This study documents the threats of the critically endangered Tectona philippinensis in the backdrop of the past conservation policies and projects. Twelve 20m x 50m plots were distributed in three altitudinal strata (S1= 50 – 100 m asl, S2= 150 to 200 m asl, and S3= 250 – 300 m asl) using stratified random sampling. Every tree was examined to detect presence of pest and diseases on foliage, stem, buttress and exposed root system. Threats of anomalous weather patterns like intense drought and human disturbances were also recorded. Leaf skeletonizers, shotholes, buttrot, heartrot, rootrot, illegal harvesting, charcoal making, wind damages, and intense dry season are among the most alarming threats of T. philippinensis. Germinants and wildlings are most susceptible to wilting during intense drought during dry season. A number of interesting species of arthropods and macrofungi within the stand were also encountered. There are variations on the incidence and infection across altitudinal habitat and across diameter classes. Poles and standards at lower altitudinal habitat (<100 m asl) are the most disturbed and susceptible to the disturbances. Existing conservation and protection policies should be strictly implemented especially in hotspot habitats.