Environ Exp Biol (2018) 16: 31–38

Survey of echinoderms in the intertidal zone of Goso-on and Vinapor, Carmen, Agusan del Norte, Philippines

Abstract

The health status of marine ecosystems can be fundamentally determined by the abundance and diversity of marine echinoderms. Philippines as part of the Indo-Pacific region is very rich and diverse in echinoderm species. In this study, the echinoderms of the intertidal zone of Goso-on and Vinapor, Carmen, Agusan del Norte were collected and identified. A total of 18 species were identified; five sea stars (Asteroidea), six sea urchins (Echinoidea), and seven sea cucumbers (Holothuroidea). Protoreaster nodosus, Linckia laevigata, and Diadema setosum were found to be abundant based on visual observation. The asteroids and echinoids collected were not yet assessed by the IUCN while the seven sea cucumbers were either least concern or data deficient. It is good to note that Holothuria scabra, an endangered sea cucumber was present in one sampling site. The low diversity, compared to some related studies, might suggest that exploitation is predominant particularly for sea cucumbers, considered a local delicacy. It is recommended that further studies must be conducted to evaluate the population of Holothuria scabra and other marine organisms to further evaluate the health of this marine ecosystem. Efforts must also be increased to further protect and conserve the marine faunal diversity of the study area.