Many species in land and water living in the ecosystems in Mindanao remain to be discovered and protected by future generations.
This was the call of Filipino researchers and scientists as they presented different flora and fauna in land and water that are endemic in Mindanao's environs as part of the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) held in Cagayan de Oro City on November 29, 2024, at Limketkai Luxe Hotel.
The DOST-National Research Council of the Philippines presented the side event on Mindanao biodiversity. Students were invited as participants to listen to the lecture and interact with guests.
Among the discussants were Dr. Victor Amoroso and Dr. Maria Melanie Guiang of the Central Mindanao University based in Maramag, Bukidnon.
Amoroso and Guiang showcased the different endemic species found in Mount Agad-agad in Iligan City, and the bodies of water in Lanao del Norte. Not only endemic species, they presented other species that are considered threatened because of their limited population in the wild.
Other than being a prime tourist destination, Siargao island in Surigao del Norte was also explored for its abundant plants and animal species, which are unique to the island.
Dr. Arvin Diesmos of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity discussed the reptile species in Siargao, while Dr. Mudjekeewis Santos of the National Fisheries Research and Development Insitute highlighted marine fishes.
Dr. Cecilia Banag-Moran featured Siargao's "Green Guardians" and their roles in preserving the biodiversity on the island amid the influx of tourists. (DOST-10/PR)
Dr. Victor Amoroso of the Central Mindanao University based in Maramag, Bukidnon, talks about endemic plants in Mindanao.
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