INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IX, September 2025
www.ijltemas.in Page 183
Biodiversity Inventory: Implications for Conservation and
Environmental Education
Amera C. Malaco
College of Teacher Education, Sultan Kudarat State University, Philippines
DOI: https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.1409000025
Received: 16 Sep 2025; Accepted: 22 Sep 2025; Published: 30 September
Abstract: This study conducted a comprehensive biodiversity inventory of Buluan Lake, Mindanao, focusing on aquatic plants,
fish, and bird species during October 2024. Field observations over 30 days documented 11 aquatic and semi-aquatic plant species,
7 fish species, and 5 bird species. Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) emerged as the most abundant fish, while native species such as
Taruk (Libero rohita), Gourami (Trichopodus pectoralis), and Striped snakehead (Channa striata) were also present. Invasive and
predatory species, including Midas cichlid and Blackbelt cichlid (Amphilophus citrinellus and Vieja melanurus) and Bighead Carp
(Hypophthalmichthys nobilis), were noted, suggesting potential shifts in ecosystem dynamics. Aquatic plants such as water hyacinth
(Eichhornia crassipes) and lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) provided essential habitat and contributed to water quality, while bird species
such as the Great Egret (Ardea alba) and Black Bittern (Ixobrychus flavicollis) indicated overall ecosystem health. This inventory
highlights the ecological richness of Buluan Lake and underscores the importance of integrating such data into conservation
planning and environmental education initiatives.
Keywords Buluan Lake, biodiversity, aquatic plants, fish species, birds, conservation, environmental education
I. Introduction
Buluan Lake, located in Mindanao, Philippines, is a biologically diverse freshwater ecosystem that sustains numerous aquatic
plants, fish, and bird species. These organisms play vital ecological roles, including maintaining balance in nutrient cycling,
enhancing water purification, and providing critical habitats for other species. Beyond ecological services, biodiversity within the
lake supports the livelihoods of local fisherfolk and offers rich opportunities for environmental education, allowing students and
communities to develop a deeper sense of stewardship toward nature.
Despite its ecological importance, freshwater ecosystems such as Buluan Lake face increasing pressures from anthropogenic
activities and environmental change. Aziz et al. (2021) reported that freshwater fish diversity in Asian lakes is rapidly declining
due to climate stress and overexploitation, a trend that resonates with observed changes in Buluan Lake where native fish species
are showing signs of decline. Similarly, De Carvalho et al. (2025) highlighted that aquatic plants act as indicators of ecological
health, providing food, shelter, and water filtration services—functions clearly mirrored in Buluan Lake’s lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)
and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), which stabilize habitats and sustain fish and bird communities.
Local and regional studies reinforce the need for baseline biodiversity inventories. For instance, Corpuz, Paller, and Ocampo (2016)
found that fish assemblage distribution in Lake Taal was strongly influenced by water depth, vegetation, and proximity to the sea,
demonstrating how habitat conditions shape species diversity—insights that are directly applicable to Buluan Lake’s fisheries
management. Likewise, Lador and Seronay (2017) documented 74 bird species in the Lake Mainit watershed and emphasized their
role as ecological indicators, supporting the relevance of avifaunal monitoring in assessing the health of Buluan Lake. Recent
research by Mapi-ot, Alaman, and Calago (2024) on Lake Duminagat in Mindanao also revealed high amphibian endemism and
highlighted the urgency of species inventories as baselines for conservation of freshwater ecosystems.
On a broader scale, Hughes (2023) stressed that biodiversity baselines are essential for setting realistic conservation targets in Asia,
while Bull et al. (2014) argued that without clear baseline data, conservation outcomes cannot be properly evaluated or sustained.
Together, these findings highlight that species inventories are not merely lists of organisms but critical tools for detecting ecological
shifts, informing conservation policy, and fostering environmental education.
In this context, documenting the biodiversity of Buluan Lake serves multiple purposes: it establishes a scientific foundation for
ecological monitoring, informs conservation strategies, and strengthens environmental education by helping communities and
students understand interspecies relationships and the impacts of human activities.
II. Materials and Methods
Species Inventory
The Species Inventory of the lake ecosystem used a range of methods to study different flora and fauna within the lake. For Lake
Flora, researchers laid out transect lines from the shoreline into the lake at 10-meter intervals, noting plant species found along
these lines. Cameras were used to capture images of these plants to aid in their identification later, and these photos were included
in learning materials for educational use. Fish were sampled using traditional fishing techniques familiar to local residents, such as
fish traps (bubu) and hook and line. These tools were set up in three randomly chosen spots around the lake. Captured fish were
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IX, September 2025
www.ijltemas.in Page 184
photographed to assist in identification and were also included in the learning materials. For birds, the Bird Watching Technique
was used, which involved systematically observing and identifying bird species around the lake. Confirmation of the species
identified was done by an expert in the field.
Study Area
The study was conducted in Buluan Lake, Mindanao, Philippines. Observation sites were selected to cover diverse habitats,
including deep zones, shallow shorelines, areas near fish pens, and vegetated regions.
Figure.1 Buluan Lake, Maguindanao
Data Collection
Field observations were conducted over 30 consecutive days in October 2024. Data collection focused on three groups, fish, plants
and birds species.
Data Analysis
The data collected were carefully validated by experts to ensure the correct identification and naming of species. The resulting
inventory serves not only as a reliable reference for ecological monitoring but also as an important educational resource for raising
awareness and deepening understanding of Buluan Lake’s biodiversity.
III. Results and Discussion
Aquatic Plant Diversity
A total of 10 plant species were documented (Table 1). Common species included Eichhornia crassipes, Pistia stratiotes, Ipomoea
aquatica, and Nelumbo nucifera. These plants provide critical ecosystem services, including habitat provision, food for aquatic
fauna, prevention of soil erosion, and water purification (De Carvalho et al., 2025). Their presence reflects ecological health, while
their distribution can indicate potential eutrophication or habitat alteration.
Table 1. Aquatic and semi-aquatic plant species documented in Buluan Lake (October 2024)
No. Scientific Name Common Name Observed habitat
1 Eichhornia crassipes Water hyacinth Shoreline
2 Pistia stratiotes Water lettuce Deep lake zones
3 Ipomoea aquatica Morning glory Shoreline
4 Nelumbo nucifera Lotus Near fish pens
5 Hydrilla verticillata Water thyme Deep water zones
6 Sesbania drummondii Sesbania pea Shallow mid-lake
7 Decalobanthus peltatus Flowering vine Shallow mid-lake
8 Cyperus spp. Rice flat sedge Shoreline
9 Cyperaceae spp. Yellow nutedge Shoreline
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IX, September 2025
www.ijltemas.in Page 185
Fish Species Diversity
Seven fish species were recorded during the survey (Table 2). Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) was the most abundant, with a
minimum catch of 60 kilograms per day over seven consecutive days. This was followed by Taruk (Labeo rohita, 30 kg), Gourami
(Trichopodus pectoralis, 25 kg), and Aluwan (Channa striata, 10 kg). Invasive and predatory species were also noted, including
Utip (Amphilophus citrinellus and Vieja melanurus, 15 kg) and Bighead Carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, 10 kg), which suggest
emerging changes in community structure. However, the sample size for fish was relatively small and limited to traditional fishing
methods, which may have underrepresented elusive or nocturnal species. Moreover, while invasive species were identified, their
population density and ecological impact were not quantitatively assessed, leaving gaps in understanding their influence on native
fish assemblages. Overall, fish pen owners reported a decline in fish diversity compared to previous years, attributing this to climate
change and the increasing number of fish pens. These findings align with earlier studies indicating that introduced species can
disrupt freshwater ecosystems (Aziz et al., 2021).
Table 2. Fish species documented in Buluan Lake (November 2024)
No. Scientific Name Common/Local Name Observed Habitat
1 Labeo rohita Taruk Moderate to deep areas
2 Channa striata Mudfish / Aluwan Shallow, vegetated areas
3 Oreochromis niloticus Tilapia Coastal, moderate vegetation
4 Trichopodus pectoralis Gourami Dense aquatic vegetation
5 Hypophthalmichthys nobilis Bighead carp Deep slow-moving water
6 Gobiidae spp. Goby fish/Dulog Shallow nearshore
7 Amphilophus citrinellus / Vieja
melanurus
Utip Moderate depths
Bird Species Observations
Five bird species were observed during the survey (Table 3). Birds were primarily concentrated in areas with dense vegetation and
in proximity to fish pens. The Great Egret (Ardea alba) and Black Bittern (Ixobrychus flavicollis) are commonly recognized as
ecological indicators, as their presence suggests sufficient food resources and relatively intact wetland habitats (US Geological
Survey, 2021). Species-specific observations highlighted distinct habitat-use patterns: the Black Bittern was mostly seen in dense
vegetation near pens, while the Great Egret frequently perched on fish pen fences. The Java Pond Heron (Ardeola speciosa) was
often observed near floating vegetation or fish pens, the Philippine Swamphen (Porphyrio pulverulentus) was recorded walking on
floating plants, and the Common Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) was associated with shallow, plant-filled areas. These habitat
associations suggest a degree of ecological partitioning among species, likely influenced by both natural vegetation cover and the
presence of aquaculture structures.
Table 3. Bird species documented in Buluan Lake (October 2024)
No. Scientific Name Common Name Observed Habitat
1 Ixobrychus flavicollis Black Bittern Dense vegetation near pens
2 Ardea alba Great Egret Perching on fish pen fences
3 Ardeola speciosa Java Pond Heron Floating vegetation/fish pens
4 Porphyrio pulverulentus Philippine Swamphen Walking on floating plants
5 Gallinula chloropus Common Moorhen Shallow, plant-filled areas
Importance of the Species Inventory for Conservation and Education
The species inventory of Buluan Lake highlights the intricate interdependence of plants, fish, and birds within the ecosystem. Each
species contributes to maintaining ecological stability, supporting sustainable fisheries, and preserving water quality. Such an
inventory does not merely document the presence of biodiversity; it provides a scientific foundation for understanding ecological
relationships and the potential consequences of disruption.
From a conservation standpoint, species inventories serve as essential baseline data. They allow researchers and policymakers to
track changes in species composition and abundance over time, thereby identifying emerging threats such as overexploitation,
pollution, or habitat degradation. By doing so, inventories inform evidence-based conservation strategies and guide the development
of policies that aim to protect both biodiversity and the livelihoods that depend on it.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IX, September 2025
www.ijltemas.in Page 186
Equally important is the educational role of such documentation. Integrating species inventories into school curricula promotes
environmental literacy and fosters stewardship among students. When learners recognize the interconnectedness of ecological
systems and the impact of human activity, they become more conscious of their responsibility toward environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, by involving local communities in biodiversity monitoring, inventories nurture a sense of ownership and encourage
active participation in conservation initiatives.
In this light, the Buluan Lake biodiversity inventory functions as both a scientific resource and an educational tool. It bridges
research and community engagement, ensuring that conservation is not only guided by data but also embraced by the people whose
lives are closely tied to the lake.
Fishing Malpractices
Destructive fishing techniques, such as electric fishing and the use of illegal nets, were reported. In addition, the introduction of
invasive species and artificial feeding practices disrupts the ecological balance. Weak enforcement of existing regulations and
limited awareness of sustainable practices further exacerbate the problem.
Respondents and municipal representatives identified inconsistent disposal practices, including dumping of plastics and human
waste into the lake. Informal sanitation systems near fish pens contribute to water quality degradation. A lack of infrastructure and
community engagement undermines proper waste management and lake conservation efforts.
Community Perspectives on Resource Use and Conservation
Interviews with fish pen owners, fisher folk, and municipal representatives revealed that local stakeholders are aware of both the
benefits and risks of aquaculture practices. While aquaculture contributes to household income and food supply, respondents also
recognized that unsustainable techniques, such as overstocking and reliance on invasive species, threaten long-term productivity.
Community members also expressed concerns about declining fish diversity, increased waste, and limited regulatory enforcement.
Incorporating these perspectives strengthens the socio-ecological understanding of lake management and emphasizes the need for
participatory approaches in conservation.
Spatial Mapping of Fishing Pressure and Biodiversity Hotspots
The lack of spatial planning in aquaculture expansion contributes to ecological degradation. A GIS-based mapping of fish pens,
waste disposal points, and observed bird and fish species could highlight biodiversity hotspots, invasive species zones, and areas
of high fishing pressure. Such spatial visualization would provide valuable insights for policymakers, helping to identify priority
zones for conservation, stricter enforcement, and sustainable aquaculture development.
Limitations and Future Directions
This study provided important baseline data on the fish and bird communities in the study site; however, several limitations should
be acknowledged. For fish, the sample size was relatively small and restricted to traditional fishing methods, which may have
underrepresented elusive or nocturnal species. Moreover, while invasive species such as Amphilophus citrinellus, Vieja melanurus,
and Hypophthalmichthys nobilis were documented, their population density, trophic roles, and ecological impacts on native fish
assemblages were not quantitatively assessed.
Similarly, the bird observations, although valuable, were primarily descriptive and lacked statistical treatment. Habitat-use patterns
were noted for species such as the Great Egret, Black Bittern, and Philippine Swamphen, but systematic surveys (e.g., point counts
or transects) and quantitative analyses (e.g., diversity indices, habitat preference modeling) were not conducted. This limits the
extent to which the findings can be generalized to broader ecological patterns.
Future research should therefore employ more comprehensive sampling techniques, including gill nets, electrofishing, and nocturnal
surveys for fish, and standardized transect or point-count methods for birds. Quantitative analyses such as Shannon-Wiener or
Simpson’s diversity indices, coupled with population density estimates, would provide a more robust understanding of community
structure. Additionally, integrating ecological data with socio-economic perspectives from local fish pen owners and communities
would capture the combined effects of aquaculture expansion, climate change, and species introductions on biodiversity. Such an
interdisciplinary approach will enhance conservation strategies and inform sustainable fisheries and wetland management in the
region.
IV. Conclusion
This study documented the persistence of native biodiversity alongside the emergence of invasive and predatory species that may
alter community dynamics. Tilapia and other cultured fishes dominated catches, while invasive species such as Amphilophus
citrinellus, Vieja melanurus, and Hypophthalmichthys nobilis signaled potential ecological shifts. Bird observations, including the
presence of indicator species such as the Great Egret and Black Bittern, further underscored the ecological importance of vegetated
and aquaculture-associated habitats. Although largely descriptive, these findings provide a valuable baseline for assessing the
combined impacts of climate change, aquaculture expansion, and species introductions on freshwater biodiversity.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IX, September 2025
www.ijltemas.in Page 187
Recognizing the study’s limitations, including small sample size, reliance on traditional fishing methods, absence of advanced
statistical analysis, and lack of water quality data, the results nonetheless establish a crucial foundation for future ecological
monitoring. By incorporating biodiversity assessments with key physico-chemical parameters (e.g., pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrient
levels), future studies will be better able to link species diversity with underlying ecosystem conditions. Furthermore, integrating
systematic sampling methods, diversity indices, habitat-use modeling, and invasive species impact assessments will strengthen the
ecological interpretation of results.
In conclusion, this study contributes novel baseline information on the interplay between aquaculture and biodiversity in a
vulnerable freshwater ecosystem. Despite its limitations, the research underscores the urgency of monitoring invasive species,
habitat changes, and water quality, providing insights that are both ecologically relevant and practically significant for fisheries
management, wetland conservation, and policy development. Lake. In this way, the inventory not only documents biodiversity but
also contributes to fostering a culture of shared responsibility for conservation and sustainable resource use.
V. Acknowledgement
The researcher sincerely extends gratitude to the Honorable Mayor Freddie G. Mangudadatu, Vice Mayor Elizabeth M. Tayuan,
and the dedicated LGU officials of the Municipality of Mangudadatu for their invaluable support in the conduct of this biodiversity
inventory. Heartfelt appreciation is also given to the fisherfolk whose cooperation and shared knowledge greatly contributed to the
success of this study. Their collective efforts and commitment have been vital in advancing the cause of environmental conservation
and sustainable resource management.
References
1. Aziz, R., et al. (2021). Decline in freshwater fish diversity due to climatic and anthropogenic factors. Journal of Aquatic
Ecology, 45(2), 101–115.
2. Bull, J. W., Gordon, A., Law, E. A., Suttle, K. B., & Milner-Gulland, E. J. (2014). Importance of baseline specification
in evaluating conservation interventions and achieving no net loss of biodiversity. Conservation Biology, 28(3), 799–
809. https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.12243
3. Corpuz, O. M., Paller, V. G. V., & Ocampo, P. P. (2016). Diversity and distribution of freshwater fish assemblages in Lake
Taal river systems in Batangas, Philippines. Journal of Environmental Science and Management, 19(1), 60–71.
4. De Carvalho, J., et al. (2025). Aquatic plants as indicators of ecosystem health: Functions and conservation. Environmental
Science and Conservation, 12(1), 34–50.
5. Hughes, A. C. (2023). Developing biodiversity baselines to develop and implement future conservation targets. Plants,
12(12), 2291. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12122291
6. Lador, E. A., & Seronay, R. A. (2017). Avifaunal diversity of Lake Mainit watershed, Caraga Region, Philippines. Journal
of Ecosystem Science and Eco-Governance, 1(1), 21–34.
7. Mapi-ot, E. F., Alaman, E. F., & Calago, M. J. (2024). Species richness and endemism of anurans in Lake Duminagat, Mt.
Malindang Range Natural Park, Mindanao, Philippines. International Network for Natural Sciences (INNSpub).
https://innspub.net/species-richness-and-endemism-of-anurans-in-lake-duminagat-mt-malindang-range-natural-park-
mindanao-philippines
8. US Geological Survey. (2021). Wetland bird population trends and ecosystem health. USGS Scientific Reports,
2021-45.