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Regional Profile - Biotic Community
Flora
Region XI is more or less in its equilibrium because Flora and Fauna still abound in the four (4) provinces of the region. However, these resources must be properly managed and monitored closely to sustain their growth. Appropriate protection and rehabilitation measures should be implemented. Flora of mangroves, freshwater and coastal ecosystem that can be found in the Region are usually Rhizophora species, Rice species, Nipa species and seagrasses. In Davao Oriental there are 8 species found with toothed seagrass, tropical eelgrass and round-tipped seagrass are dominant species. Flora of lowland and mountain forest ecosystem are composed of Pitcher plants, Rafflesia, Orchids, Narra, Igem, Almaciga, Aloe or Sabila, Ferns, Cactus, Cycas or Pitogo, Bamboo and Rattan. The Region's Forest Cover include: Old growth of 7% of the total vegetative cover; 26% are 2nd growth or Residual forest; 2% mossy areas, 1% mangroves, 9% plantation forest; 19% brushlands, open/grassland and cultivated areas equivalent to 4% and 32%, respectively. These areas, particularly the old growth and mossy areas are placed under continuous and strict protective condition. Fauna
Region XI is blessed with rich bio-resources and flora and fauna that were reported to have economic worth, considering also that Region XI has Mt. Apo which is one of the centers of plant and animal diversity. The Mt. Apo Myna, Apo Lorikeet, the Cinamon Bird , the Bagobo babbler and the black and cinammon fantail are among the Region's endemics fauna. The Philippine Eagle is by far the most important bird species in the Region. This bird is not found elsewhere in the world and has become the symbol of Philippine Conservation effort. Unfortunately, widespread destruction of its habitat and over-collection is driving this species to extinction. Fauna of the mangrove, freshwater and coastal ecosystem that can be found in the region include crocodiles, ducks, geese, waders, gulls, egrets, plovers, sandpipers, crabs, clams, oysters, mussels, snails, sea cucumber, fishes, dugong, and turtles. Wildlife Species that can also be found in the region are reported possible to be rare, endangered and threatened species. (Table 1 - Rare, Endangered and Threatened Species)
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