ASSESSMENT OF MACROFUNGI IN SIARGAO ISLAND, PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This study assessed the occurrence and taxonomic composition of macrofungi in  Siargao Island, where fungal diversity remains underdocumented. Surveys were conducted in 2025 (October, November, December) and 2026 (March, May) using a standardized transect sampling method with spatial and temporal replication. Mushrooms were photomicrographed in situ, collected, and identified based on their morphological characteristics and taxonomic references. Diversity indices were used to quantify species richness and distribution across sampling months. A total of 50 macrofungal taxa were collected and morphologically identified, belonging to 2 phyla, 6 orders, 21 families, and 32 genera. The most frequently collected species are Lentinus sp. (13.78%), Schizophyllum commune (13.36%), Auricularia auricula-judae (11.51%), Pleurotus sp. (9.79%), Gymnopilus sp. (6.62%). Species richness varied among sampling months, with December showing the highest number of species (27) and the highest Shannon diversity index (H' = 2.93). Most recorded taxa were lignicolous fungi, showing that woody substrates dominate in the agroforestry system and influence macrofungal distribution. The presence of edible and medicinal species highlights the ecological and socio-economic value of macrofungi in the island. This assessment provides baseline information on macrofungal diversity in Siargao Island and helps fill a biogeographic gap in the documentation of macrofungal diversity in island ecosystems.