Species Composition, Diversity and Status of Anurans in Agroforested Areas and Forested Highlands in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat

Abstract

Anurans are highly sensitive amphibians that serve as important bioindicators of ecosystem health due to their permeable skin and dual life cycle. This study assessed the species composition, diversity, and conservation status of anurans in forested highlands and agroforested areas of selected barangays in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, Philippines. Anuran species were documented during nocturnal and diurnal period through opportunistic sampling, quadrat transects, capture–mark–release techniques and photo documentation, followed by taxonomic identification validated by experts. Anuran diversity and evenness were assessed and their endemism and conservation status. A total of seven anuran species belonging to five families were recorded across the study sites. These are Rhinella marina, Fejervarya moodiei, Hoplobatrachus rugulosus, Limnonectes magnus, Kaloula pulchra, Hylarana grandocula and Polypedates leucomystax. Both agroforested areas and forested highlands exhibited low species diversity using Shannon Weiner Diversity index (H′ = 1.50 and 1.69) and Simpson’s Diversity index (D= 0.75- 0.78). Pielou’s evenness showed moderate to high evenness (0.84–0.87) in the study sites. Two species were recorded as Philippine or Mindanao endemics such as Limnonectes magnus and Hylarana grandocula. Limnonectes magnus is classified as Near Threatened. This study provides baseline data essential for biodiversity conservation in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat.