Voices from the Reclaimed Land: Community Choices in Post-Mining Agroforestry | InformativeBD

Muhammad Yusuf, Hafizianor, and Mahrus Aryadi, from the institute of Indonesia. wrote a Research Article about, Voices from the Reclaimed Land: Community Choices in Post-Mining Agroforestry. Entitled, Community preference on agroforestry systems at post-mining revegetation land at PT Arutmin Tambang Asam-asam, South Kalimantan. This research paper published by the Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences | JBES. an open access scholarly research journal on Biodiversity. under the affiliation of the International Network For Natural Sciences| INNSpub. an open access multidisciplinary research journal publisher.

Abstract

During this time, land reclamation by means of revegetation so that plants can live on post-mining land finds obstacles in its implementation, including technical, social, expensive and long time problems. One of the ways is to formulate a post-mining land revegetation model effectively and efficiently (Kustiawan, 2001). Land use with agroforestry systems is a combination of tree crops that have an economic and ecological role with seasonal plants or other types of plants. The object of this research is the PT Arutmin Indonesia. Tambang Asam-asam coal mining area which has been and is currently conducting post-mining revegetation activities. The concept of land revegetation patterns after the coal mine that will be formulated is a reference for local government policies in utilizing natural resources, especially land that has been damaged. Community preferences are obtained by conducting interviews and using questionnaires to respondents. The number of respondents from the community was carried out by purposive sampling (Sugiyono. 2007). The chosen community is the head of the family with the livelihood of farming and gardening located in the area closest to the company’s operations. Community preferences analyzed included community expectations for groups of plant species, main types of plants and types of herbaceous plants and supporting plants. Public preference for agroforestry systems that can be developed in post-mining revegetation lands is 60% of the plants that are expected to be in agroforestry areas are timber-producing plants, 50% want rubber as the main crop in the agroforestry area, 70% choose turmeric as an herbaceous plant It is expected to be planted in post-mining areas, while 80% want ginger as a supporting plant that is expected to be planted in post-mining areas based on agroforestry.

Read more :  Color from the Hive: Testing Bee-Based Shoe Polish Varieties | InformativeBD

Introduction

The main problem in post-mining land is environmental changes that affect conditions in groundwater and surface water, then morphologically and topically change land (Suprapto, 2008). The problem of post-mining land rehabilitation is complicated, because it involves costs and time and special expertise is needed. Land reclamation activities combine the work of vegetation management to create a sustainable natural environment and the economy of the community remains good (Lubis, 1997). Until now there is still little research on the use of reclaimed land by coal mining companies to improve the welfare of communities around the mine.

One way to overcome the obstacles as described above is to formulate effective and efficient postmining land revegetation models. The revegetation model is based on agroforestry (Kustiawan, 2001). Agroforestry systems have great potential both in terms of ecology and economics. This system is beneficial for the management of water and soil in the surrounding environment because there are various types of plants with different canopy strata with their respective functions, as well as the biodiversity of plants that become habitats for animals. Besides that it is beneficial for people around the mine area because the community can periodically harvest the results of intercropping before and after the main crops produce products that can be harvested.

According to Foresta, et.al. (2000), land use with agroforestry systems is a combination of tree crops that have an important economic role or have an ecological role (such as coconut, rubber, cloves, cashew or tree crops) with seasonal crops (such as corn, rice, nuts, vegetables) or other types of plants (such as bananas, coffee, chocolate) are simple agroforestry systems. In addition, the types of plants chosen are directed to native plants. It is better to choose local plants that are in accordance with the current climate and soil conditions (Qomariah, 2003).

The basis of this research is the effort to recover postmining land which is a production forest area in order to be able to function again through the agroforestry system by exploring preferences for the return of the function of agroforestry-based production forest areas. This research was conducted at PT. Arutmin Indonesia Tambang Asam Asam, South Kalimantan which is a company that has implemented post-mining revegetation implementation. Efforts to restore the condition of post-mining land to be productive are expected to be maximally beneficial for human needs and the environment in a sustainable manner.

Reference

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Kustiawan W. 2001. Development of Vegetation and Soil Conditions and Revegetation of former Coal Mine excavations in East Kalimantan. Forestry Scientific Journal “Borneo Jungle” 6(2), 20-30. Samarinda.

Lorenzo JS, Griffith JJ, de Souza AL, Reis MGF, de Vale AB. 1996. Ecology of a Brazilian Bauxite Mine Abandoned for Fifty Years. Proceedings The International Land Reclamation and Mine Drainage Conference and Third International Conference on The Abatement of Acidic Drainage 1(3), 73-82. Pittsburgh.

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Qomariah R. 2003. Impact of Unlicensed Coal Mining Activities (PETI) on the Quality of Land Resources and Socio-Economic Communities in the Banjar Regency of South Kalimantan. IPB Bogor Postgraduate Thesis.

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Val C, Gil A. 1996. Methodology for Monitoring Land Reclamation of Coal Mining Dumps. Proceedings the International Land Reclamation and Mine Drainage Conference and Third International Conference on The Abatement of Acidic Drainage 3, 2-11, Pittsburgh.

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Article source : Community preference onagro forestry systems at post-mining revegetation land at PT Arutmin Tambang Asam-asam, South Kalimantan 

 

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Color from the Hive: Testing Bee-Based Shoe Polish Varieties | InformativeBD

Shella B Cacatian, and Narcitas B Ouano, from the institute of Philippines. wrote a Research Article about, Color from the Hive: Testing Bee-Based Shoe Polish Varieties. Entitled, Acceptability test of different colors of shoe polish from bee products. This research paper published by the Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences | JBES. an open access scholarly research journal on Biodiversity. under the affiliation of the International Network For Natural Sciences| INNSpub. an open access multidisciplinary research journal publisher.

Abstract

The use of organic materials as shoe polish is just within reach and is less polluting. This study investigated the sensory characteristics of shoe polish cream in different colors from bee products. It designed and tested appropriate packaging and labelling for the different formulations. Four groups of respondents evaluated the four formulations. Data were subjected to Analysis of Variance and to Least Significant Differences using Randomized Complete Block Design to test the disparity among the treatment means. Results depict that the shoe polish in different colors were not statistically different as regards odor, gloss, absorbency, consistency, color intensity, quick-dry ability, effectivity with respect to time and general acceptability. Likewise, the acceptability of the four groups of rater to product’s gloss and absorbency does not significantly vary. However, the relative distinction of the achieved status of raters modifies the ranking on odor, consistency, color intensity, quick-dry ability, effectivity, and general acceptability. Unopened shoe polish can remain stable for two years at room temperature and in proper storage. In the context of product packaging and labelling characteristics, the big-sized container, substrate type, pictorial elements and verbal information of the label are the most significant attributes affecting the preference of the raters.

Read more :  Pitchers of Bucas Grande: Classifying and Conserving the Island’s Carnivorous Plants |InformativeBD

Introduction

Over the years, the Cagayan State University at Sanchez Mira has emphasized conducting beekeeping activities to complement its mandate as the Regional Apiculture Satellite Center (RASC) in Region 02. Anchored on the National Apiculture Research Training and Development’s (NARTDI) thrusts and goals to work on European and Philippine native bees, it is in the position to explore the opportunity of strengthening the beekeeping industry in the region as an organic and sustainable means to pursue development goals and preserve biodiversity. With the vision to be a hub for bee research and development, one of its objectives is to generate and disseminate relevant knowledge and technology that lead to improved productivity, profitability, and sustainability in the apiculture industry. The promotion of appropriate apicultural techniques could help create various types of small-scale incomegenerating activities to solve the unemployment situation in the region and improve the standard of living by increasing the income level of the populace.

In the past, a lot of beekeeping activities in the region focus on the production of honey, the best known main product of beekeeping. Wax is also a primary product but has rarely given consideration, and propolis is even less familiar. While these products are often wasted (Jakpa, 2016; Fearne, Martinez & Dent, 2012) and are mostly left or thrown away (Gebru, 2015; Ambaw & Teklehaimanot, 2018), they can be transformed into a wide variety of marketable products or can be added to other products to enhance their value or quality. Many of the primary products of beekeeping does not have a market until they are incorporated to more commonly used, valueadded products (Krell, 2011). Value addition to processing, packaging, and branding agricultural produce would increase the benefits obtained from the beekeeping products (Berem, 2009; Hoberg & Maksimovic, 2015; Edwards, Schwab & Shevlin, 2016). Diversification with value-added products, therefore, offers an opportunity to strengthen local markets, which then permit a more solid beekeeping production and eventually increased incentives for regional and global trade (Krell, 2011; ArevaloGallegos, Ahmad, Asgher, Parra & Iqbal, 2017). For example, honey with royal jelly or honey mixed with pollen or propolis powder can fetch a better price than the two products marketed separately (De Figueiredo, Meuwissen, Van der Lans, Oude Lansink, 2016; Tarekegn, Girma & and Assefa, 2017).

The inclusion of “natural" bee products in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and foods (Premratanachai & Chanchao, 2014; Abdullah, Noordin, Ismail, & Mustapha et. al., 2018) poses new opportunities and challenges to small-scale producers, traders, and processors along with beekeeping industries. They see it as necessary in the development framework for upgrading as an instrument for promoting the products.

An initial study was conducted by Cacatian (2016) on the formulation of a black shoe polish cream highlighting the physical characteristics and shelf-life of the product using coconut and bee products. The study yielded positive results, and it offers new possibilities of using readily available low-cost and all-natural materials in the production of shoe polish. Consequently, with the investigation, it is viable to produce different colors of shoe polish like black, brown, burgundy, and neutral using beeswax and propolis.

The productive utilization of bee products could pave the way to help create small business opportunities for beekeepers, women, and entrepreneurs and improve their economic situation. The potential of this research study will motivate beekeepers and would-be beekeepers to expand their apiaries, eventually increasing the volume of bee products production and their income.

Moreover, the application of the raw materials in producing different colors of organic shoe polish cream can at least contribute to the government’s advocacy of lessening the production of biodegradable garbage and squandered dirt especially the coconut and bee by products which are one of the main barriers in the continuous water system flow in the community that lead to a disastrous flooding.

Putting them to good use is one way of collaborating with the government in taking actions and in creating new patterns of behavior towards the environment. It is within this premise that this study is conducted to formulate an all-natural shoe polish cream in different colors from bee products that is safe, gentle, environment-friendly and cost-effective. Specifically, the study assessed the acceptability of the shoe polish, the difference on the preference of the groups of rater on its physical characteristics, the shelf-life, as well as the design and appropriate packaging and label for the different formulations of shoe polish.

Reference

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Cacatian SB. 2016. Physical characteristics and shelf life of shoe polish cream from coconut and bee products. Asian Intellect for Academic Organization and Development Research and Education Journal 4, 71-76

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Article source :  Acceptability test ofdifferent colors of shoe polish from bee products  

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Pitchers of Bucas Grande: Classifying and Conserving the Island’s Carnivorous Plants | InformativeBD

Nelson Taro Sanico, Aljon Selisana Andrade, and Rex Bomvet Deleon Saura, from the institute of Cameroon. wrote a Research Article about, Pitchers of Bucas Grande: Classifying and Conserving the Island’s Carnivorous Plants. Entitled, Taxonomic classification and conservation status of pitcher plant species in selected areas of Bucas Grande Island, Socorro, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines. This research paper published by the Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences | JBES. an open access scholarly research journal on Biodiversity. under the affiliation of the International Network For Natural Sciences| INNSpub. an open access multidisciplinary research journal publisher.

Abstract

The endemic carnivorous pitcher plants remarkably increased its diversity in Philippines due to unending research discovery of the species and conservation measures applied to these plants. The current study aimed to identify and classify the observed Pitcher plant species vegetation in the steep sloping areas along the watershed river and swampy areas in Bucas Grande Island as well as to determine the conservation status of the said species. The obtained field data about the external morphological description of the pitcher plants species, descriptively matched to the known carnivorous pitcher plant species-Nepenthes mirabilis and Nepenthes merrilliana that are endemic carnivorous pitcher plant species in the country. The study concluded that there are two species of pitcher plant in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro which are Nepenthes mirabilis and Nepenthes merrilliana. N. merrilliana, however, is currently categorized as a vulnerable species which needs a careful monitoring for an appropriate conservation measures.

Read more : Biodiversity at Risk:Exploring Flora, Fauna, and Threats in Shella Mountains, Balochistan | InformativeBD

Introduction

Pitcher plant is known as a carnivorous flowering plant luxuriously growing in disturbed and natural tropical rainforest (Adam et al., 2011). Philippines is one of the place where there is an abundance of pitcher plant because of the climate in the area (Gronemeyer et al., 2014). Having the highest rates of endemism of this family is considered a center of diversity of the genus Nepenthes along with Sumatra and Borneo and recent explorations in Mindanao and Luzon has raised the Philippine number of Nepenthes species to 52 (Amoroso et al., 2017).

The forest habitat destruction incurred an impact to the pitcher plant species due to plantation businesses like pineapple plantation, palm plantation, mining operations and forest fires (PAWB-DENR 1998; Lagunday et al., 2017). It is sad to note that at present time, many carnivorous plants are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities. Indeed, over half of the carnivorous plant species assessed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) are listed as threatened (Jennings 2011). Furthermore, conservation research is essential to help inform the science-based management of environments that support threatened and endangered wildlife (Doi and Takahara 2016). Normally, taxonomic classification and conservation are interdependent and other disciplines have direct implications for the management of species and ecosystems, captive breeding and reintroduction, genetic analyses, and habitat restoration (Mace 2004; Gerber 2010). We should rethink the way we prioritize conservation to recognize the critical role that small, isolated patches play in conserving the world’s biodiversity and reconnecting small isolated vegetation patches should be an immediate conservation priority (Wintle et al., 2019)

In relation to this, a study about pitcher plant species in the perceived vegetation in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro was conducted with the aim to identify, and classify the pitcher plant species and determine its conservation status. In doing so, can ensure relevant and applicable to all regions and that the information necessary for the conservation of threatened species is available to conservation practitioners; specifically to the local government unit (LGU) and to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) about the pitcher plant species in the area and for conservation purposes.

Objectives of the Study The study aimed to classify and determine the conservation status of pitcher plant species in three (3) selected sites in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro, Surigao del Norte.

Specifically, this study aimed to:

 1. describe the morphology of pitcher plant species

2. identify and classify pitcher plant species in the area; and

 3. determine the conservation status of Pitcher Plant species in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro.

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Gronemeyer T, Coritico F, Wistuba A, David Marwinski D, Gieray T, Micheler M, Mey FS, Amoroso V. 2014. Four New Species of Nepenthes L. (Nepenthaceae) from the Central Mountains of Mindanao, Philippines Plants 2014, 3, 284-303; Accessed on January 27, 2019 from DOI: 10.3390/plants3020284

Jebb M, Cheek M. 1997. A skeletalrevision ofNepenthes (Nepenthaceae) BLUMEA 42 (1997) 1-106 Accessed on January 26, 2019 http://www. repository.naturalis.nl/document/565135

Jennings D. 2011. The Conservation and Ecology of Carnivorous Plants Graduate Theses and Dissertations. Accessed on January 26, 2019 https://scholarcommons.usf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=https://www.google.com/&httpsredir=1&article=4364&context=etd.

Lagunday NE, Acma FM, Cabana VG, Sabas NM, Amoroso VB. 2017. Two New Nepenthes Species from the Unexplored Mountains of Central Mindanao, Philippines. Phil. Journal Science. Accessed January 29, 2019 from http:// philjournalsci.dost.gov.ph/53-vol-146-no-2-june-2017 /638-two-new-nepenthes-species-from-the-unexplored -mountains-of-central-mindanao-philippines

Lillo EP, Fernando ES, Lillo MJR. 2018. Plant diversity and structure of forest habitat types on Dinagat Island, Philippines. Journal of Asia Pacific-Biodiversity. Accessed on January 20, 2018 from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2018.07.003

Mace GM. 2004. “The Role of Taxonomy in Species Conservation.” Philosophical Transactions: Biological Sciences vol. 359, no. 1444, pp. 711–719. JSTOR Accessed March 29, 2019 from https://www.jstor.org/stable/4142264?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents

Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau. 1998. The First Philippine National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity. Accessed on January 27, 2019 from https://www.cbd.int/doc/world/ph/ph-nr-01-

Schlauer J. 2010. Carnivorous Plant Systematics. Carnivorous Plant Newsletter Vol 39 March 2010 Accessed January 24, 2019 from https://www. researchgate.net/publication/315575998

Wintle BA, Kujala H, Whitehead A, Cameron A, Veloz S, Kukkala A, Moilanen A, Gordon A, Lentini PE, Cadenhead NCR, Bekessy SA. 2019. Global synthesis of conservation studies reveals the importance of small habitat patches for biodiversity. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences January 2019. Accessed March 29, 2019 from https://www.pnas.org/content/116/3/909

Image References

Pelser PB, Barcelona JF. 2016. Nepenthaceae: Nepenthes merrilliana. Accessed on January 26, 2019 from http://phytoimages.siu.edu/imgs/pelserpb /r/Nepenthaceae_Nepenthes_merrilliana_58936

Rule MGQ. 2018. Phyto Images. Philippines: Mindanao: Surigao del Norte Prov. Brgy. Honrado, Municipality of Socorro, Siargao Islands Accessed January 24, 2018 from http://131.230.176.4/ imgs /pelserpb/r/Nepenthaceae_Nepenthes_mirabilis_1

Robinson A. 2012. Nepenthes merrilliana on Samar. Carnivorous Plants in the tropics, June 29, 2012. Accessed on January 26, 2019 from http://pitcherplants.proboards.com/thread/11301

Nepenthes mirabilis. Accessed January 24, 2018 from http://www.herbarium.gov.hk/PlantInfo /Nepenthaceae/Nepenthes/mirabilis/88150/108_Nepenthes%20mirabilis_%E8%B1%AC%E7%B1%A0%E8%8D%89_31-12-2009_88150_LR_WM.jpg

Sriplung H. 2012. Nepenthes mirabilis. Accessed January 24, 2018 from http://nepenthesoutthere. blogspot.com/2012/05/nepenthes-mirabilis-in-thepha.html

Butler RA. 2008. Accessed January 24, 2019, https://travel.mongabay.com/malaysia/images/borneo_4990.html

Article source : Taxonomic classification and conservation status of pitcher plant species in selected areas of Bucas Grande Island, Socorro, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines 

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Biodiversity at Risk: Exploring Flora, Fauna, and Threats in Shella Mountains, Balochistan | InformativeBD

BiBi Aliya,  Syed Inamullah, and Gull Makai, from the institute of Pakistan. wrote a Research Article about, Biodiversity at Risk: Exploring Flora, Fauna, and Threats in Shella Mountains, Balochistan. Entitled, Floral and faunal biodiversity and determination of negative incentives in Shella (Maslakh) Mountains, Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan. This research paper published by the Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences | JBES.  an open access scholarly research journal on Biodiversity. under the affiliation of the International Network For Natural Sciences| INNSpub. an open access multidisciplinary research journal publisher.

Abstract

The objective of this study research was to investigate exact floral and faunal biodiversity in association with habitat status Shella Maslakh Mountains of Balochistan. This study work was carried out in 6 field trips from June 2020 to April 2021. During this research a total of 26 mammalian species were documented belonging to 6 orders and 13 families in the area. Order rodentia with 13, carnivora 4, artiodactyla 3, insectivora 3, lagomorpha 2, and chiroptera 1 species which few species were common while some were rare. Among the reptiles a total 21 species were recorded belonging to 2 orders including squamata 20 and testudines 1 species with 8 families. In amphibians 6 different species were recorded belonged to order anura with 2 families. In bird fauna 3 orders otidiformes, pterocliformes, galliformes with one representative species for each family and order were recorded. In flora a total of 223 specimes with 21 different species were collected with 9 genera’s including Artemisia 4, Haloxylon 2, chryosopogen 2, Chmbopogon 2, Astraguluse 3, Caarghana 1, Stocksia 1, Stocksii 5 and Peteropryrium 1 species representatives with a total of 8 families in which most common species are pterocaulas, microcarp, hermonis, Qaradaghens, brevicayllis, Griffithi, stocksii and maritima, vulgaris, propiedades, dracunnculus were found rare.Finding of this research work suggests that Maslakh Mountain rang has a great potential to run a healthy wildlife. Therefore, it is needed that intensive conservation of wildlife has to be preserved by government agencies for a viable and resources rich ecosystem.

Read more :  Life Beneath theTides: Seagrass and Soil Substrates of Siargao’s Coastal Zones | InformativeBD

Introduction

Balochistan is the fourth province of Pakistan. It is the wide-ranging province concerning land area, which is found in the southwestern region of the country but is the minimum populated. Quetta is the capital of this province which counts as the largest city of Balochistan. Balochistan shares borders with Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa and Punjab to the northeast, Sindh to the southeast and east, Iran to the west, and the Arabian Sea to the south, Afghanistan to the north and northwest (Gare., 2013). Quetta is the provincial capital of the Province of Baluchistan in Pakistan. It is also the largest city in Baluchistan. Which including in the 10th largest city of Pakistan. Located in northern Baluchistan and sharing a border with Afghanistan near and the road across to Kandahar, Quetta is basically a communication center and trade between two countries (Bibi et al., 2015). The Bolan Pass route is near this city which is the major gateways from Central Asia to the south. According to (Ahmad, 1951) that Quetta’s total geographical area is 26531km. Quetta has an area of 26531km (1,024 sq. mi).the longitude of Quetta is 66.996452 and the latitude of Quetta (Malkani., 2017). Baluchistan is 30.183270.location of Pakistan is coming at in the Cities place category with the GPS coordinates of 66°59' 47.2272'' and 30 10’59.7720’’N. But according (Anon,19980) that provincial city of Baluchistan is lying between 67-18 E and 67-44 E at an altitude 1700 meters and 30-3 and 3-27 and 66-44 N. Quetta, Pakistan attributes a continental arid climate with large dissimilarities between winter and summer temperatures. But according to (Razzaq et al., 2014).

The climate of Quetta is totally arid and frigid (15 to - 7C) and winter is too mild as (32 to 35C) in summer. But according to (Köppen-Geiger) Quetta climate is classified as cold and semi-arid climate zone it has low humidity and dry climate, frigid in winter in this city snowfall is receives in December, January, and February. Evolution of animals began 600 million over years ago in the ocean (Anderson., 1975).a high percentage of migratory birds over 30% (Roberts.,1991) Pakistan is arid and semi-arid regions and 80% land area in case here 174 mammal species reported in Pakistan in which endemic and nonendemic subspecies (Robert., 1997) only 22 species of amphibians are recorded in which 9 is non-endemic and a number of marine species 29 fish species nine are snow trout (Hassan., 1997) Two breeds of buffalo, one of yalk, eight of cattle, 25 of goat, 28 of sheep reported in Pakistan (Usmani & Jasra 1993). Maslakh (shella) is located in the west of Quetta, but its eaten faces Quetta city. While Maslakh is a rural area of Quetta but north wise it is nearest to district Pishin and south wise it extends towards panjpai. It is almost 20km away from a Quetta city.in Maslakh we have shella which is protected area for conservation farming and rearing of karakul sheep and goats. This is protected by boundary walls no one is allowed to cut herbs and shrubs, and trees in the shella. More than less 3 to 4km square protected area for livestock as well this area is range protected area state forest area and wildlife sanctuary in which different type fauna and flora present. But sheep and goats endemic species of this area.

Reference

Ahmad M. 1951. KASHMIR IN THE UNITED NATIONS. Pakistan Horizon 4(4), 217-232.

Ali MH. 1980. Protection and management of wildlife in Baluchistan. In International Seminar on Organizing Wildlife Management in Developing Countries, November 10-12, 1980, Pakistan Forest Institute, Peshawar, Pakistan.

Anderson JM. 1975. The enigma of soil animal species diversity. In Progress in soil zoology (pp. 51-58). Springer, Dordrecht.

Anwar M, Jasra AW, Ahmad I. 2008. Biodiversity conservation status in Pakistan-a review. The Pakistan Journal of Forestry 58(1), 39.

Ashraf M, Routray JK. 2015. Spatio-temporal characteristics of precipitation and drought in Balochistan Province, Pakistan. Natural Hazards 77(1), 229-254.

Bibi T, Ahmad M, Tareen NM, Jabeen R, Sultana S, Zafar M, Zain-ul-Abidin S. 2015. The endemic medicinal plants of Northern Balochistan, Pakistan and their uses in traditional medicine. Journal of ethnopharmacology 173, 1-10.

Ghalib SA, Jabbar ABDUL, Khan AR, Zehra A. 2007. Current status of the mammals of Balochistan. Pakistan journal of Zoology 39(2), 117.

Hasan SA. 1997. Biography and diversity butterflies of northeast area of Himalayas. In mufti. S. A., CA. Woods and S. A Hassan (Eds.). Biodiversity in Pakistan: PMNH pp181-204.

Kayani SA, Masood AYEESHA, Achakzai AKK, Anbreen S. 2007. Distribution of secondary metabolites in plants of Quetta-Balochistan. Pakistan Journal of Botany 39(4), 1173.

Khan MZ, Siddiqui S. 2009. Studies on bioecology and fauna of Hazarganji Chiltan National Park and development of ecotourism in protected areas. Canadian Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences 5(1), 1371-1384.

Malkani MS, Mahmood Z, Shaikh SI, Arif SJ, Alyani MI. 2017. Mineral resources of Balochistan province, Pakistan. Geological Survey of Pakistan, Information Release 1001, 1-43.

Marwat Q, Khan NA. 1988. Phyto-ecological studies in Maslakh range forest Pishin, Baluchistan [Pakistan]. Pakistan Journal of Forestry (Pakistan).

Rafi M. 1965. Vegetation types of Baluchistan province. Pak. Govt. Printing Press. Punjab. Lahore Pakistan 116.

Robert TJ. 1997. The Mammals of Pakistan.In Global Diversity assessment of Pakistan Oxford University press 1744pp.

Roberts TJ. 1991. The Birds of Pakistan: Passeriformes: Pittas to Buntings (Vol. 2). Oxford University Press, USA.

Usmani RH, Jasra AW. 1993. Efficient Utilization of Genetic Diversity of Farm Animals in Pakistan. Progressive Farming 13(5), 68-74.

Article source :  Floral and faunal biodiversity and determination of negative incentives in Shella (Maslakh)Mountains, Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan 

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Life Beneath the Tides: Seagrass and Soil Substrates of Siargao’s Coastal Zones | InformativeBD

Jhondel P. Baranggan,  Archie D. Cawaling, Aldwin Y. Sarmen, Mauricio S. Adlaon, and Mariah Jay E. Escatron, from the institute of Philippines. wrote a Research Article about, Life Beneath the Tides: Seagrass and Soil Substrates of Siargao’s Coastal Zones. Entitled, Sea-grass assessment and soil substrates along the coast of Barangay Union and Malinao, Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines. This research paper published by the Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences | JBES.  an open access scholarly research journal on Biodiversity. under the affiliation of the International Network For Natural Sciences| INNSpub. an open access multidisciplinary research journal publisher.

Abstract

This research study comprehensively assessed seagrass characteristics using the transect quadrat method in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. Three 50 m transect lines and laid parallel, separated by a 25 m distance, and readings were taken using steel quadrats placed every 5 m along the transects. A total of 11 quadrats were laid in each transect, and five seagrass species were recorded: Cymodocea serrulata, Cymodocea rotundata, Thalassia hemprichii, Enhalus acoroides, and Halodule pinifolia.As displayed in Tables 2, 3, and 4, the outcomes showed the percentage of seagrass coverage in each quadrat and the corresponding seagrass species. The dominant species varied across the quadrats, highlighting the spatial variability in seagrass distribution. Transect 1 had the highest species richness, while Transect 3 exhibited the most dominance and evenness. The study also analyzed the substrate types in the site, including clay, silt, sand, gravel, and rock. The preference of seagrass species for coarse sand substrate was seen, while rocky substrates had minimal seagrass cover. Transect 3 predominantly featured a coarse sand substrate. The findings indicate that it is suggested to implement conservation and management measures to protect and preserve the seagrass ecosystems. Restoration efforts should be considered in areas with absent or poor seagrass coverage. The dominant seagrass species should receive special attention in conservation efforts. Long-term monitoring programs are crucial to track changes in seagrass coverage and species composition. Lastly, this research provides valuable insights into the seagrass characteristics and their interplay with substrate types in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. The findings contribute to the area’s understanding and conservation of seagrass ecosystems.

Read more : Hidden Shells of Balochistan: Exploring Land Snail Diversity Across the Province | InformativeBD

Introduction

Laws and policies have been implemented to preserve the Philippines' coastal and marine ecosystems. Siargao Island Protected Landscape and Seascape (SIPLAS) is a significant conservation area that protects its biological integrity and beauty while encouraging sustainable development and wise use of its resources. It is a protected area under Republic Act No. 7586, spanning 278,914.131 acres of landscape and seascape in Surigao del Norte, Mindanao. These municipalities were Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, General Luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, Socorro, and Santa Monica (Calagui et al., 2022). On October 10, 1996, the island was designated a National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) protected area Law, Presidential Proclamation No. 902. The protected area promotes sustainable practices, responsible tourism, and community-based conservation activities to preserve Siargao Island's distinctive biodiversity and natural resources. This serves as a significant conservation area, preserving Siargao's natural heritage and enhancing the livelihoods of nearby communities. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment published DAO 2016-26 in October 2016, which sets guidelines for maintaining and protecting coastal and marine ecosystems in the Philippines.

Since then, the Department has created and implemented policies and programs to address the issues causing the deterioration of natural ecosystems across the country. The efforts undertaken as part of this program aim to restore the coastal and marine ecosystem services to their original state and to improve their natural resilience.

This is accomplished using scientific research, community participation, and practical experience, all guided by precautionary principles. The primary purpose is to ensure the conservation and management of the Philippines' coastal and marine habitats. These legislative frameworks aim to guarantee these priceless natural resources conservation and sustainable management (Department of Environment and Natural Resources, 2016).

Seagrass meadows play a physical benefit and are critical components of SIPLAS, supporting marine life, carbon sequestration, sediment stability, and water quality enhancement. Seagrasses are marine flowering plants that constitute ecologically and commercially significant ecosystems in coastal zones worldwide (Potouroglou, 2017).This contributes significantly to the Philippine coastal ecology, and some sections of the country have effectively mapped seagrass areas to manage the coast (Brazas & Lagat, 2022). Its ecosystems are significant for commercial and subsistence fisheries because they provide feeding grounds and shelter for fish, crabs, and shellfish, sustaining local fishing populations. However, anthropogenic activities, such as climate change, adversely affect seagrass meadows' health and functionality (Dunic et al., 2021).

Environment change and human activity both have an impact on seagrass habitats. Furthermore, rising temperatures, sediment erosion, and acidity are some of climate change's direct and indirect effects on seagrass meadows (Wilson & Lotze, 2019). Due to their role as trophic and nursery crucial for fishes and bigger vertebrates, seagrasses are a vital component of the coastal environment. Animal species like crabs, prawns, shellfish, and fishes devour them directly in the form of leaves and indirectly in the form of detritus and epiphytes (Edgar et al., 2001).

Seagrass beds were decimated by siltation and excessive harvesting of the plants and wildlife that were present there. In their ruthless removal of the plant in the quest for bivalves, the gleaners destroy the plant and its habitat (Tanduyan et al., 2021). Seagrasses endure natural pressures such as storms, excessive grazing, and disease, but this valuable ecosystem also suffers from human threats. Due to their coastal proximity, seagrass beds are especially vulnerable to runoff pollution from urban and agricultural areas, carrying contaminants such as pesticides, household chemicals, oils, automotive wastes, fertilizers, and other chemicals and debris. This excess leads to algae blooms, which deplete oxygen supplies and smother seagrasses, causing massive die-offs. Dredging and prop scarring also tear up meadows, leaving open spaces that take years to regrow. In addition, seagrass plants promote nutrient cycling; they act as a nutrient pump. Plants absorb nutrients from the earth through their leaves and discharge them into the water. In nutrient-deficient locations. (Reynolds et al., 2018).

Human actions have significantly impacted the seagrasses' current state. Therefore, to create plans for sustainability and conservation, it is required to evaluate its status and condition. In addition, Siargao Island's crystal-clear ocean results from this ecosystem, making it a well-liked vacation spot. In Barangay Union, Dapa, and Barangay Malinao, General Luna, seagrass beds play a significant role. It must also keep monitoring and safeguarding this ecosystem. The study aims to assess the soil substrate and determine the seagrass species in a region where several fishermen regularly fish for various species, including fish, shrimp, and grabs.

Reference

Agrawal A, Gopal K. 2013. Application of Diversity Index in Measurement of Species Diversity. In: Biomonitoring of Water and Wastewater. Springer, India. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-81-322-0864-8_4

Brazas FP Jr, Lagat RD. 2022. Diversity, distribution, and habitat association of Seagrass in Calatagan, Batangas, Philippines. Journal of Ecosystem Science and Eco-Governance 4(Special Issue), 23-32(6). Retrieved from https:// www.researchgate.net/publication/366135298_Diversity_distribution_and_habitat_association_of_seagr

Calagui LB, Rosal JJ, Seronay RA, Calagui SIM. 2022. Inventory of fish fauna in Siargao Island Protected Landscape and Seascape, Surigao del Norte, Philippines. Fisheries Research 251, 106325. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fishres.2022.106325

Calumpong HP, Menez EG. 1997. Field guide to the common mangroves, seagrasses and algae of the Philippines pp. 183-187. Retrieved from https:// agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?record ID= US2 01300021635

Department of Environment and Natural Resources. 2016. Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Biodiversity Management Bureau (DAO 2016-26). bmb.gov.ph. Retrieved May 23, 2023, from https://www.bmb.gov.ph/index.php /resources/downloadables/laws-and-policies/denr-administrative-orders/dao-2007-2016

Dunic JC, Brown CJ, Connolly RM, Turschwell MP, Cote IM. 2021. Long-term declines and recovery of meadows area across the world’s seagrass bioregions. Global Change Biology 27, 4096-4109. https://d.org/10.1111/gcb.15684

Edgar GJ, Mukai H, Orth RJ. 2001. Fish, crabs, shrimps and other large mobile epibenthos. In G. P. Short, C. A. Short, & T. T. Gleason (Eds.), Global Seagrass Research Methods (pp. 255-270). DOI: 10.1016/B978-044450891-1/50014-1. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/278718090_Fish_crabs_shrimps_and_other_large_mobile_es

Fortes MD. 1989. Seagrasses: A resource unknown in the ASEAN region. International Center for Living Aquatic Resources Management, 5, 46. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication /39012908_Seagrasses_a_resource_unknown_in_the_ASEAN_region

Kuo J, den Hartog C. 2001. Seagrass taxonomy and identification key. In G. P. Short, C. A. Short, & T. T. Gleason (Eds.), Global Seagrass Research Methods (pp. 31-58). DOI: 10.1016/B978-044450891-1/50003-7. Retrieved from https://www.researc hgate.net /publication/278718099_Seagrass_t axo nomy _and_identification_key

McKenzie LJ. 2003. Guidelines for the rapid assessment and mapping of tropical seagrass habitats. Retrieved from https://www.seagrasswatch.org/wp-content/uploads/Methods/manuals/PDF/SeagrassWatch_Mapping.pdf.

McKenzie LJ, Campbell SJ, Roder CA. 2001. Seagrass-Watch: Manual for Mapping & Monitoring Seagrass Resources by Community (citizen) volunteers. (QFS, NFC, Cairns) 100pp. Retrieved from https://www.seagrasswatch.org/manuals.html.

Potouroglou M. 2017. Assessing the role of intertidal seagrasses as coastal carbon sinks in Scotland (Doctoral dissertation). Edinburgh Napier University, School of Applied Sciences. Retrieved from https://www.napier.ac.uk/research-and-innov ation /research-search/phds/assessing-the-role-of-intertidal-seagrasses-as-coastal-carbon-sinks-in-

Rain R. 2022. Shannon Diversity Index Calculator. Omni Calculator. Retrieved May 24, 2023, from https://www.omnicalculator.com/ecology/shannon-index#:~:text=How%20to%20interpret%20the%20Shannon,is%20the%20number%20of%20species.

Reynolds PL, Duffy E, Knowlton N. 2018. Seagrass and Seagrass Beds. Smithsonian. Retrieved May 24, 2023, fromhttps://ocean.si.edu/ ocean-life /plants-algae/seagrass-and-seagrass beds#:~: text= Seagrasses%20can%20further%20improve%20water,acting%20as%20a%20nutrient%20pump.

Tanduyan SN, Andriano BT, Gonzaga RB. 2011. Species diversity of seagrasses in Camotes Islands, Central Philippines. In Biodiversity and Conservation Oral Presentation (pp. 203-206). San Francisco, Cebu, Philippines: Cebu Technological University. Retrieved from https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf /12217684.pdf

Ulfah M, Fajri SN, Nasir M, Hamsah K, Purnawan S. 2019. Diversity, evenness and dominance index reef fish in Krueng Raya Water, Aceh Besar. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science 348(1), 012074. https:// doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/348/1/012074

Wilson KL, Lotze HK. 2019. Climate change projections reveal range shifts of eelgrass Zostera marina in the Northwest Atlantic. Marine Ecology Progress Series 620, 47-62. Retrieved from https://www.jstor.org/stable/26789823

Whiting D, Card A, Wilson C, Reeder JPhD. 2014. Colorado State University Extension. CMG Garden Notes #214: Estimating soil texture – sandy, loamy, or clayey. Retrieved from SOIL texture (studylib.net)

Article source : Sea-grass assessment and soil substrates along the coast of Barangay Union and Malinao, SiargaoIsland, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines 

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Hidden Shells of Balochistan: Exploring Land Snail Diversity Across the Province | InformativeBD

Shahab-ud-Din Kakar, Zafarullah, and Azmatullah, from the institute of Pakistan. wrote a Research Article about, Hidden Shells of Balochistan: Exploring Land Snail Diversity Across the Province. entitled, Diversity and distribution of land snails (Gastropoda: Mollusca) in the different sites of Balochistan Province, Pakistan. This research paper published by the International Journal of Biosciences | IJB. an open access scholarly research journal on Biosciences. under the affiliation of the International Network For Natural Sciences| INNSpub. an open access multidisciplinary research journal publisher.

Abstract

To study the diversity of land-snail fauna in the province of Balochistan, fourteen different sites were surveyed. Five land snail species were found as the Bradybaena similaris, Macrochlamys sequax, Zootecus insularis, Allopeas gracile and Zebrina detrita. Among these, the Zootecus insularis was showed a wide distribution and found in 8 of the total 14 surveyed sites. Followed by Bradybaena similaris and Macrochlamys sequax in 6 and 4 sites respectively in the province. On the other hand, Allopeas gracile and Zebrina detrita was collected from only site 1 but in different areas of the foresaid site which revealed the fact of their extinction in near future if immediate measures have not taken. The current study brought the present status and diversity of the land snail fauna into the pages of scientific record across the province as there is a dearth of reports about the diversity of land snail fauna in diverse provincial sites. Herein, this research offered first and detailed taxonomic description and distribution data of land snails’ fauna occurring in the province. Additionally, it might provide a way to carry out taxonomic studies about land snail fauna in the other provinces of the country.

Read more :  Inside the Radish:Exploring Physiological and Anatomical Traits of Selected Varieties |InformativeBD

Introduction

Gastropoda is the most important class of the phylum Mollusca with the animals having well-developed head bearing tentacles, eyes and a large muscular foot which is helpful for crawling. Snails, limpets, and slugs are familiar members of this class (Boonngam et al., 2008). Most members of the class Gastropoda bears a protective coiled shell accept the slugs, which have no shell. Land snails entails of the two main groups’ the prosobranchs and pulmonates. Prosobranchs have hardened shells and opercula which cover the apertures or openings of shells. Pulmonates, lack opercula and used lung for gaseous exchange. They live under leaves, woodland litters, logs, stones and trash, gardens, on the soil, in the cracks and even beside the hill-slopes (Srihata et al., 2010). The temperature and moisture play a significant role in their occurrence and distribution. Some land snails serve as intermediate hosts of infectious trematodes and other parasites of animals and human beings. However, most of the land snails have an important role in the ecosystems in which they live: they contribute to litter decomposition and concentration of soil calcium and are an important food source for other animals (Lange, 2003). Their generally short life span (i.e. a few months or years) and their limited powers of dispersal make them excellent bioindicators (Watters et al., 2005). To vast diversity, the land molluscan fauna did not get much consideration until the current (Graveland et al., 1994). Previously little work has been carried out in the areas adjacent to Afghanistan and northern India by some authors (Solem, 1979; Subba, 1979) but very poor work has been done on land snails of Pakistan. The author (Pokryszko et al., 2009) reported the Pupilloidae of Pakistan during the summers of 1990- 1992. Although, there seems to be no information on the land snails of Balochistan province. This paper aims to provide an inventory of the land snail fauna along with a detail taxonomic description and distribution data of these snails in the different sites of the province.

Reference

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Boonngam P, Dumrongrojwattana P, Matchacheep S. 2008. The diversity of land snail fauna in Chonburi Province, Eastern Thailand. Kasetsart Journal (Natural Science) 42, 256-263.

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Article source : Diversity anddistribution of land snails (Gastropoda: Mollusca) in the different sites of Balochistan Province, Pakistan 

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