Identification and characterization of hemiepiphytes at University of Rizal System Main Campus, Tanay, Rizal / Ma. Stephany O. Doroja.

Thesis Bachelor of Science in Forestry University of Rizal System Tanay 2019

Includes bibliographical references.

ABSTRACT The study aimed to determine, identify and characterize the hemiepiphyte plant species in the selected areas inside the University of Rizal System Main Campus Tanay, Rizal. The study was conducted at the forested area near the URS Poultry Production Area. The descriptive method was used in this research wherein the hemiepiphytic plant species were identified and characterized. There was a total of 4.58 hectares used as the study site inside the university. Three (3) species of Hemieipiphyte plant species were found present in the host trees. They are Amlong (Epipremnum pinnatum L. Engl.) with the total of 25, Kamay kastila (Syngonium podophyllum Schott.) with the total of 98 and Balete (Ficus sp.) having a total of 5. A total of 20 host tree species were affected by the hemiepiphyte plants found in the study site. Generally in all host in the study site, the most dominant species is Narra having a total occurrence of thirty seven (37). There are two (2) types of hemiepiphyte plant species found in the study site. Two (2) of them are permanent hemiepiphytes and one (1) is strangling hemiepiphyte. Based on the distribution map, the upper part of the area where the elevation is higher, hemiepiphyte species are abundant compared to the lower part of the area. All hemiepiphyte plant species that are found in the area have differences in morphological attributes and growth habit. The researcher recommends that follow-up study on hemiepiphytes be conducted in order to have a deeper understanding of their effect on trees and similar studies are strongly recommended in other areas of the campus to identify the other hemiepiphytes species that could be seen in certain areas in the university.