Species diversity of Araceae in Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center and Arroceros Forest Park, Manila, Philippines

Abstract

Abstract. Brillo SC, Banogon JDA, Aguila NAA, Mones JRM. 2025. Species diversity of Araceae in Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center and Arroceros Forest Park, Manila, Philippines. Asian J For 9: 34-44. Green spaces in urbanized areas are crucial for biodiversity conservation. However, cultivation can influence plant diversity and the ecosystem. Araceae is a plant family usually planted in these areas due to its appeal and adaptability. Despite this, exotic species are often planted without considering their potential effects on ecosystems. This study aimed to create a checklist of aroids in Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (NAWPC) and Arroceros Forest Park (AFP), Manila, Philippines. This study was achieved through an opportunistic, descriptive botanical inventory design. Twenty-five species across 10 genera, namely Aglaonema, Alocasia, Caladium, Dieffenbachia, Epipremnum, Philodendron, Spathiphyllum, Syngonium, Thaumatophyllum, and Typhonium were identified. Twenty-two and 10 species occur in NAPWC and AFP, respectively. Seven species are native, 12 species are introduced, and 6 species are naturalized. The species surveyed varied in morphology and habitat preference. Epipremnum pinnatum and Typhonium blumei were the most abundant. Aglaonema commutatum, Syngonium spp., and Alocasia macrorrhizos were considered site specific. Introduced species like Dieffenbachia seguine and Philodendron ‘Lemon Lime’ reflected human cultivation preferences. Additionally, Jaccard index of 0.4 presents a moderate similarity of Aroid species between sites. The findings highlight the underrepresentation of native aroids and prioritizing these species can promote biodiversity and sustainability in urban environments.