Date of Publication

8-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Subject Categories

Marine Biology

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Biology

Thesis Advisor

Wilfredo Roehl Y. Licuanan

Defense Panel Chair

Chona Camille V. Abeledo

Defense Panel Member

Laurence Robles
Hilarie Orario

Abstract (English)

Coral reefs are essential ecosystems that are biodiversity hotspots, being interconnected with seagrass and mangrove ecosystems. They are important sources of livelihood for local coastal communities. As such, the coastal communities of Lian, Batangas have been monitoring changes in their reefs’ conditions over the years. The ‘C30’ method has been used for monitoring the coral reefs of Talim Bay in Lian with three years (2022, 2023, and 2024) of data collected so far. This study analyzed the data set from 16 sampling stations in Lian to characterize and show the changes in abundance, diversity, and composition of stony corals in the reef. Analyses revealed that 12 out of 16 stations exhibited a decline in hard coral cover (HCC) in 2024. The Talim Outer A and Talim Outer B survey stations had the most significant decline. Both stations also experienced a significant decline in coral diversity in 2024. In addition, the cover of algal assemblages increased the most in both stations. When the yearly average HCC increases, diversity also increases; the same holds when HCC decreases. The massive form is the most common growth form of coral. Likewise, the most dominant TAU in Talim Bay is massive Porites. This is consistent with the fact that Talim Bay has Type I coral communities. Although significant changes occurred in Talim Bay’s coral reefs, considering the dominant TAUs present, Talim Bay can still recover if proper management and interventions are implemented immediately.

Abstract Format

html

Abstract (Filipino)

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Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Biodiversity--Philippines--Batangas; Coral reef ecology--Philippines--Batangas

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Embargo Period

9-4-2026

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Available for download on Friday, September 04, 2026

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