1. Ilocos Sur More specifically: Candon and Vigan A Mangrove Forest Biome
2. Geographical location: At the north western part of the Philippines or Region I. Located at a region where typhoons and prolonged droughts occur yearly. Climate: PAGASA defines the climate as generally arid, meaning there are more dry than wet months. The ratio between dry months and wet months vary from 1.00 to 1.67
3. Biga’a (AlcasiaMacroniza) It is from the Taro family. Thrives mostly near the riverbeds. Interesting Fact: Was allegedly the origin of the capital’s name Vigan through miscommunication. It is said that conquistadors asked a local about the name of the city. The local thought they were pointing at the plants growing near the riverbed and replied “Biga’a”. The city was then named “Vigan” after the plant. Flora
4. Flora Kandong (Memecylonlanceolatum) Belongs to the family Melastomacae. Said to be a premium kind of tree species which is superior in strength, quality, and texture. Interesting fact: It is also believed to be the origin of the city’s name. During a wedding, Spaniards asked what was going on. The locals misunderstood and thought they were asking what the name of the tree was. They uttered “candong” and the Spaniards dropped the “g” for convenience.
5. “Aroma” or Needle Bush (Vachelliafarnesiana) Named as such because of the numerous needles on its branches. Has thorns which can be as long as nails. Interesting fact: Locals believe that it is the same plant that was used to make the crown of thorns that Jesus Christ was forced to wear. I can’t post the picture for some reason so I’ll just post the link. http://saintlucianplants.com/floweringplants/mimosaceae/vachfarn/acacfarn5.html Flora
6. Priest-hat urchin (Tripneustesgratilla) Has five or ten double rows of red and white spines separated by spaces of black, red, purple, or white. Interesting fact: This urchin is sold in local markets and is actually edible and eaten by locals. Fauna
7. Double spined urchin (EchinothrixCalamaris) Has a shell diameter of about 5 cm. Has two sets of spines: short spines which can sting and long ones which are usually banded. Interesting fact: This urchin is also eaten by locals. The spines are poisonous and the only edible part is their gonads. Mmmm, gonads. Fauna
8. Cauliflower Coral (PocilloporaDamicornis) Named as such because of its similarity to a cauliflower. Can be placed in aquariums for pets and fish. Interesting fact: It’s not edible. I can’t put the picture here for some reason so I’ll just post the link. http://animal-world.com/encyclo/reef/sm_stony/PocilloporaDamicornis.php Fauna
9. I believe that the mangrove forest biome is important because it is a self-sustaining biome. Because of that it can be a stable source of resources; if not abused. In my course HRIM, I am going totake the Culinary track. How is that related to the biome’s importance to me? The mangrove biome is home to various organisms like fish, crustaceans and algae. These organisms are also used in cooking so that’s why it’s important to me. This biome can give me ingredients. Haha. Also I was able to fish and catch a Shih tzu. >>> No, not really. Importance
