Philippine E-Journals

Diversity of Indigenous Fruit Tree Species in Selected Local Communities of Echague, Isabela, Philippines

Helen C. Ramos | Florenda B. Temanel

 

Abstract:

Indigenous fruit trees play a vital role in crop diversification and agroforestry system. It is also considered as a source of food and nutrition, and contributes to the income of rural people. However, indigenous fruit trees face deforestation and genetic erosion. Hence, this study determined the diversity of indigenous fruit tree species in selected local communities in Echague, Isabela. Selection of study areas were based on the presence of target fruit tree species, peace and order situation, and accessibility. Sampling areas were determined using Point-Center Quarter Method (PCQM).Identification of fruit tree species present in the different areas was done to its species name. Collected representative plants were brought to the laboratory for identification and preservation. There were 21 fruit tree species identified belonging to the family Annonaceae, Rutaceae, Myrtaceae, Sapindaceae, Sapotaceae, Lauraceae, Moraceae, Anacardiaceae, Ebenaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, and Oxalidaceae. The species common to all the study areas are Annonamuricata L., Psidiumguajava L., Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam., Citrus maxima (Merr.), Diospyros blancoi A. DC., and Sandoricum koetjape (Burm.f.) Merr. All the species identified occur sparingly in the different study areas. These areas have distinct dominant and important fruit tree species. Species diversity is high as shown by the different diversity parameters.