Distribution patterns of echinoderms in seagrass and coral reef flat areas in Calatagan and Lian, Batangas, Philippines

Date

3-2010

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Major Course

Major in Zoology

College

College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Maria Eleanor B. Aurellado

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Abstract

Many echinoderm species are commercially important and are prone to overfishing. Understanding the distribution of echinoderms, especially in accessible habitats such as seagrass beds and coral reef flats can help in the management of echinoderms. The composition and size distribution of echinoderms were compared between seagrass and coral reef flats in Batangas, Philippines. Transect lines were deployed in each habitat type in two locations in Batangas. Echinoderms found within the transects were identified, measured, and counted. Twenty-eight species were identified, most of which are sea urchins and sea cucumbers. Two-way ANOSIM showed that echinoderm assemblages were significantly different between habitat types and locations, although the influence of location was greater. The echinoderm assemblage at Elizalde Beach, Calatagan was characterized by Tripneustes gratilla, Salmacis sphaeroides, Protoreaster nodosus, and Synapta maculata, whereas Ligtasin Beach, Lian was characterized mainly by brittlestars, Diadema setosum, S. maculata, and Holothuria leucospilota. Differences in assemblages between seagrass and coral reef flats appeared to be driven by differences in relative abundances of species present in each habitat type. Canonical correspondence analyses suggest that percentage cover of sand, rock, and hard coral strongly influenced the distribution of echinoderms. Among the six species common to both habitat types, P. nodosus, S. maculata, and D. setosum had greater proportions of smaller individuals in the seagrass beds. These results suggest that differences in echinoderm distribution between seagrass and coral reef flats may be explained by food availability, substratum preference, and protection from desiccation. Furthermore, this study suggests that seagrass beds are important nursery areas for some echinoderm species.

Language

English

Location

UPLB Main Library Special Collections Section (USCS)

Document Type

Thesis

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