Taxonomy and Biometrics of Tarsius syrichta (Tarsier) at Barangay Bayanga, Cagayan de Oro City

Abstract

The objectives of the Study were to capture tarsiers in Cagayan de Oro City, to assess the number of individual tarsier, to identify its morphological and biometric characteristics, and to identify the possible threats of its existence. The scientific study and exploration was conducted at Sitio Tagbocboc, Barangay Bayanga an hour's ride from the city proper of Cagayan de Oro. It was purposively selected after making use of the Plot Sampling Method (PSM) to quantity collection of tarsiers and qualifies habitat types as agricultural land; partial/y cultivated land and forested area. Another method used was Cruise Sampling Technique (CST). This technique applies random collection of ground and arboreal mammals like the Tarsiers. The results of the study revealed that: I. the tarsier caught was morphologically different from the Tarsier in Bohol; 2. the taxonomic classification of tarsier found here in Cagayan de Oro is Tarsius syrichta of the family of Tarsier; 3. tarsiers in Cagayan de Oro are not only vulnerable but are also greatly threatened to become an endangered species in its habitat; 4. Illegal logging, "kaingin ", hunting and conversion of forest into agricultural land affect the biodiversity and the population of the vulnerable and threatened species of Tarsiers. Keeping wide variety of plants for Tarsius syrichta locally known as "maamag" is essential not only for mammals but also for lIIan 's future which is dependent all biodiversity. It will be a great pride of the Kagay-anon and Cagayan de Oro as another home of the world famous smallest primate in the world. However, that honor is always ·coupled with an enormous challenge and that is, the responsibility of protecting and conserving this unique creature.

 

Keyword - the tarsier.