Spikemoss flora (Selaginella) in Mindanao Island, the Philippines: Species composition and phenetic analysis of morphological variations

Abstract

The genus Selaginella, commonly referred to as spikemosses, is an important component of the Philippines' lycophytes diversity. Mountain ecosystems in Mindanao island hold diverse species of lycophytes, however the morpho-taxonomy diversity of this group is poorly documented there. The study aimed to determine Selaginella species richness, distribution and phenetic relationships based on morphological characteristics in Mindanao island. Specimens of Selaginella were collected in Mt. Apo, Kidapawan City; Mt. Hamiguitan, Davao Oriental; Mt. Kiamo, Mt. Kitanglad, Mt. Musuan and Mt. Limbawon in Bukidnon; Mt. Timpoong, Camiguin; and Mt. Malindang, Misamis Occidental. The 24 Selaginella species were collected and subjected to numerical phenetic analysis using the PC-ORD program. A total of 11 morphological characters and 44 character states were used in the analyses. Of the 24 species, seven are Philippine endemics, four are potential new species and two species are widely distributed in the areas studied. Results of the phenetic analysis showed four major clusters.