Comparative Assessment of Mangrove Diversity and Carbon Stock Quantification in Three Coastal Barangays in Davao del Sur, Philippines

Jeffrey B. Galerio; Joel S. Pardillo

Comparative Assessment of Mangrove Diversity and Carbon Stock Quantification in Three Coastal Barangays in Davao del Sur, Philippines

Author: Jeffrey B. Galerio, Joel S. Pardillo

Country: Philippines

Volume & Issue: Volume 1, Issue 2, July 2026 - September 2026

Page No.: 17-24

DOI.: https://doi.org/10.63941/eupij.2026.1.2.03

Publication Date: August 13, 2026

Abstract:

Mangrove forests play an important role in protecting coastlines and storing large amounts of carbon; however, many stands in Davao del Sur continue to experience disturbance and declining species diversity. This study assessed mangrove diversity, ecological characteristics, ecosystem carbon stocks, and management implications in Barangays Tuban, Bato, and Cogon–Punta Biao, Davao del Sur, Philippines. Field measurements of trees, litter, downed wood, and soil were conducted to estimate ecosystem carbon stocks, while ecological indices were used to characterize mangrove communities. Seven mangrove taxa were recorded across the three sites. Mangrove diversity remained very low (H′ = 1.399–1.556), indicating simplified stand structures dominated by Rhizophora apiculata and Sonneratia alba, which also exhibited the highest ecological importance, as indicated by the Importance Value Index (IVI). Total ecosystem carbon stocks varied considerably among sites, with Cogon–Punta Biao recording the highest carbon storage (1,342.37 Mg C ha⁻¹), followed by Bato (1,162.83 Mg C ha⁻¹) and Tuban (925.83 Mg C ha⁻¹). Live biomass constituted the largest carbon pool, while soil organic carbon contributed to long-term carbon sequestration. Based on these findings, a site-specific Sustainable Mangrove Management Framework was developed to support biodiversity conservation, blue carbon management, and sustainable coastal planning in Davao del Sur. The findings further contribute to broader sustainability objectives related to climate action and ecosystem conservation under SDGs 13, 14, and 15.