Species Diversity, Density and Diameter of Different Bamboo Species in Maasin, Iloilo, Central Philippines

Abstract

Maasin is known as the bamboo center in the province of Iloilo. The annual "Tultugan" festival which highlights the central role played by the bamboo plant in the lives of the people is a unique celebration in the municipality. The bamboo industry is one of the main sources of livelihood and income to its local folks and residents. However, baseline information on the various bamboo species, its density and diameter is lacking. Hence the need to establish the data on this area is of paramount importance. This study used survey method, quadrat sampling and actual measurement on the different variables such as species diversity, density and diameter respectively. The results of the study showed that there are fifteen (14) species of bamboo belonging to five (5) genera that have been found. Out of the species identified thirteen exhibits erect growth habit and two species are considered climbing bamboos. Most of the species were introduced in the locality but Dinochloa sp. And Schizotachyum as climbing species are endemic to the place. Of the given five commonly found erect bamboo species, Bambusa vulgaris has the highest density per square meter. Dendrocalamus asper or "giant bamboo" has the biggest diameter.