A macroinvertebrate-based multimetric index (MMI) for assessing ecological condition of selected streams and wadeable rivers in the Philippines

Date

12-2025

Abstract

Biological assessments provide a direct and integrative approach to evaluating the ecological condition of freshwater ecosystems, capturing both short- and long-term human impacts on streams and rivers. Despite their importance, most tropical countries, including the Philippines, lag behind in this regard, unlike neighboring nations that have already established macroinvertebrate-based biomonitoring programs. To address this gap, a macroinvertebrate-based multimetric index (MMI) was developed to assess and monitor the ecological condition of the selected streams and wadeable rivers in the country. By integrating multiple macroinvertebrate assemblage attributes, MMIs provide a holistic understanding of ecosystem health and support sustainable freshwater management. Macroinvertebrates were sampled from 36 streams and rivers across Cagayan Valley, Cebu Province, and Caraga. Water quality, land cover, and physical habitat condition were used to distinguish least-disturbed from disturbed sites. A total of 148 candidate macroinvertebrate metrics-encompassing abundance and composition, richness and diversity, functional traits, and tolerance and sensitivity--were screened for range, responsiveness, sensitivity, and redundancy. The resulting index classified streams and rivers into three ecological condition classes: good (n=11), fair (n=3), and poor (n=22). This study represents the first MMI applied across multiple regions in the Philippines, providing a nationally relevant framework recommended for inclusion in stream quality monitoring programs. Its use alongside physicochemical assessments will provide an improved evaluation to inform management, conservation, and environmental policy.

Document Type

Master Thesis

Degree

Master of Science in Zoology

College

Graduate School (GS)

Co-adviser

Ma. Vivian C. Camacho

Language

Loucel E. Ciu, Ireneo L. Lit, Jr., Francis S. Magbanua

En – AGROVOC descriptors

RIVERS; FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS; MACROINVERTEBRATES; BIOMONITORING; WATER QUALITY; LAND COVER; CHEMICOPHYSICAL PROPERTIES

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