Characterization of the Habitat and Food Preference of Bayuku (Ryssota ovum Val) in Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve

Abstract

The study aimed at characterizing the biophysical and microclimatic conditions of the natural habitat of Bayuku (Ryssota ovum Val.) and determining its food preferences. The characterization of the natural habitat was carried out at the Boot Subwatershed where the Bayuku specimens were collected for experimentation. The preference test was undertaken at the multistorey agroforestry system at the Learning Laboratory for Agroforestry. The study was conducted from February to March 2003.

Among the micro-habitats of the Bayuku included the base or buttresses of trees rock depressions, weathered rock surfaces, the underside of forest leaves, and underneath fallen branches, decomposing logs and other forest litters. They concealed themselves as defense mechanism against their predators and protection against light and desiccation.

Their common enemies include the black ant, Aphaenogaster treate, and the Red Crested Malkoha, Phaenicophaeus supercilious, or locally known as “Basag-Bayuku” which preyed on juveniles. A Zoroptys sp., a primitive insect common at the foot of the Bayuku was believed to be their ally or collaborator. Threats to the survival of the Bayuku were found to be man-made, over collection and the incidence of forest fires damaging their natural habitat.

In the preference test, Tangisang Bayawak was the most preferred food by the Bayuku among the five-leaf litters from the natural habitat while Kakawate was the most preferred food among the agroforestry species tested. On choice test, the Bayuku demonstrated greater preference for fresh leaves than the decomposing dried biomass. Comparing the food consumption among biomass types, the combination of decomposing dried biomass and fresh leaves registered the highest food intakes followed by the pure-fresh leaves. Leaf litter of sample trees from the natural habitat and leaf litters of agroforestry species raked the least consumed food types. The moistness of the leaf biomass was observed to enhance the food preference of the Bayuku.

The study showed that Bayuku are generalists in their food intake. They consumed food other than what they normally eat at their natural habitat. This suggests the potential of Bayuku for culture and integration in agroforestry.

The relationship between the weight increments of Bayuku with their food intake was found to be negative, signifying that other than the quantity of food consumed, the nutrient value of the food was another factor that contributed to the growth and weight increment of Bayuku.

The meat and fecal matter of Bayuku were also found to be significant. An analysis of its edible meat's nutritive value showed very high amounts of protein and ash as source of minerals, and low in fat. The meat's attribute was found to be at par with the other major food sources. Moreover, its fecal matter was found to be good source of macro and micronutrients essential for plant growth.