The WATER Lab congratulates three BS Biology advisees who have successfully defended their thesis proposals last September 28, 2026. Their studies are part of Development of Integrated Indices of State of Ecosystem Health in Conserved, Recolonized and Restored Mangroves (SECuRe Mangroves), funded under the University of the Philippines Emerging Interdisciplinary Research (EIDR) Grant. The project evaluates and compares the health and ecosystem services of natural/intact mangroves, naturally recolonized abandoned fishponds, and restored/planted mangroves in Oriental Mindoro, using indicators such as biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and CO₂ emission reduction.
Arwen May Torres
Thesis Proposal Title: Assessing Seasonal Dynamics of Culturable Diversity and Enzymatic Activity of Mangrove Sediment-Associated Fungi from Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Adviser: Dr. Severino G. Salmo III | Co-adviser: Dr. Marie Christine Obusan
This study will isolate and identify sediment-associated fungi using morphological and molecular (ITS) methods. It will also assess their enzymatic activity (xylanase, cellulase, amylase, L-asparaginase, protease) and their ability to degrade crude oil.
Gianella Mhercel Esteban
Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Vegetation Structural Complexity in Different Mangrove Stands in Oriental Mindoro
Adviser: Dr. Severino G. Salmo III
This study compares the structural characteristics and species composition of mangrove stands using vegetation plots established across seaward, intermediate, and landward zones. Tree species, diameter at breast height, height, canopy cover, and regeneration are measured to assess diversity and structural complexity.
Mica Ella Abad
Diversity and Vertical Distribution of Meiofauna Across Mangrove Stand Types in Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Adviser: Dr. Severino G. Salmo III | Co-adviser: Dr. Francis Magbanua
This study compares the composition, diversity, and vertical distribution of meiofauna across mangrove zones. Meiofauna are extracted from sediment cores and identified, then analyzed against water, soil, and vegetation parameters and the dominant mangrove species.
With their proposals approved, the students will proceed to fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and data collection.
Congratulations Iskas and wee look forward to your findings!
