Characterization of the Roosting Sites of the Golden Crowned Flying Fox (Acerodan jubatus), and Giant Philippine Fruit Bats (Pteropus vampyrus) and their Effects on Dipterocarp Forests

Abstract

This study dealt with the characterization of the roosting sites of the Golden Crowned Flying Fox (Acerodan jubatus) and Giant Philippine Fruit Bats (Pteropus vampyrus) and their Effects on Dipterocarp Forests. In determining the causes of morality in White Lauan (Shorea contorta) at the bat roost area, physical observation and soil physico-chemical analysis were done. Likewise, the physico-chemical analysis revealed that there is no significant difference on the soil nutrient in both roosting and control plants. Hence, this finding confirms that bat droppings may not be the cause of death of the White lauan trees.

Vegetation structure in the bat roost area is significantly different from that in control plots or non-roost areas. Such findings accounted for the limited number, size and maturity of plant species found in the roost area. On the other hand, the roost area can be considered as disturbed forest with the presence of the young regenerants and gaps formed by dead trees which drive the bats to move to the inner part of the forest.

Overhanging of the bats on the branches and twigs that results in bio defoliation of trees is a suspected contributor factor in the mortality of the White lauan.