2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 12
Available Online: 11 May 2026
Author/s:
Batangoso, Carla Mae P.*
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (Pasacao Campus), Philippines (carlamae.batangoso@cbsua.edu.ph)
Belen, Allan Josh S.
Oserin, Glory Mae N.
Llaguno, Jefferson B.
Patropis, Rose
Dela Rosa, Rolly B.
Nava, John Peter B.
Belbes, Mel Alvin S.
Nolasco, Michael N.
Abstract:
This study assessed the ecological status and physico-chemical conditions of seagrass ecosystems in Barangay San Antonio, Tinambac and Barangay San Ramon, Siruma, Camarines Sur. A quantitative research design using vegetation analysis was employed, wherein five line transects were established in each site and quadrat sampling was conducted to measure seagrass species diversity, relative dominance, relative density, and percent cover. Physico-chemical parameters, including temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO), were measured using calibrated equipment, while direct observation and opportunistic sampling documented associated marine organisms and potential bioindicators present within the seagrass beds. Results showed that Barangay San Antonio has very low seagrass diversity, dominated only by Enhalus acoroides (EA), and exhibited highly acidic pH levels and elevated temperatures, indicating ecological stress and unfavorable environmental conditions for seagrass growth and associated marine life. In contrast, Barangay San Ramon supported multiple seagrass species, stable water quality, and abundant biological components, including corals, macroalgae, fish, mollusks, and seahorses, reflecting a healthier and more resilient marine habitat. The comparison revealed significant differences between the two areas, highlighting the influence of physico-chemical conditions on seagrass ecosystem integrity and emphasized the importance of site-specific management approaches. Based on these findings, policy recommendations were proposed focusing on rehabilitation for San Antonio and conservation and monitoring for San Ramon.
Keywords: seagrass, species diversity, ecological status, physico-chemical parameters, bio-indicators, water quality, seagrass cover
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26201
Cite this article:
Batangoso, C. M. P., Belen, A. J. S., Oserin, G. M. N., Llaguno, J. B., Patropis, R., Dela Rosa, R. B., Nava, J. P. B., Belbes, M. A. S., & Nolasco, M. N. (2026). Seagrass assessment on coastal barangays in San Antonio, Tinambac and San Ramon, Siruma Camarines Sur: An input to conservation mechanism policy. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(12), 35-53. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26201
* Corresponding Author