UNDERSTORY FLORA OF SELECTED SECONDARY FORESTS OF KIAMBA, SARANGANI PROVINCE

Species composition, diversity, and abundance of understory flora in Barangay Kapate, Tamadang, Gasi, Tambilil of Kiamba, Sarangani Province were investigated from September 25 to September 28, 2010 using the quadrat method along eight (8) transects. Each transect had a minimum of 25 quadrats, spaced 20 m apart. A total of Fifty-two (52) species of plants were identified, resolved into 33 families and 31 genera. The dominant species in terms of coverage were Selaginella usterii, Alocasia spp. Pueraria hirsuta, Asplenium sp and Dizplazium cuneifolium. Selaginella usterii, Alocasia spp, and Pueraria hirsuta were pervasive in most transects surveyed. Simpson's Diversity index was calculated at 0.86 for Barangay Kapate, 0.86 for Barangay Tamadang, 0.76 for Barangay Gasi, 0.82 for Barangay Tambilil, suggesting moderate diversity. In terms of Species Importance Value, Selaginella usterii obtained the highest value of 177.34. The survey indicated 1 rare, 1 Philippine endemic and 48 economically important species. Occurrence of Cyathea sp., a known rare species has been observed in the area.