Scientific Area
Conservation Challenges and Priorities for Rafflesia species (Rafflesiaceae) in the Philippines
ID: 613 / 237
Category: Abstract
Track: Pending
Proposed Symposium Title: Conservation Challenges and Priorities for Rafflesia species (Rafflesiaceae) in the Philippines
Authors:
Tobias, A.B.1,2, Malabrigo Jr., P.L.2,3,4, Maldia, L.S.J.2,5, Buot Jr., I.E.6, Chris Thorogood7,8
Affiliations: 1 Graduate School, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines 2 Department of Forest Biological Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines 3 Museum of Natural History, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines 4 Land Grant Management Office, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines 5 Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines 6 Institute of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines 7 University of Oxford Botanic Garden, Rose Lane, Oxford, UK 8 University of Oxford Department of Plant Sciences, Oxford, UK
Abstract:
This paper presents the outcomes of a comprehensive study aimed at understanding the taxonomy, distribution, and conservation status of Rafflesia species in the Philippines. Through meticulous taxonomic review, field surveys, and data compilation, 16 Rafflesia species have been identified in the country, with the addition of a newly discovered species, R. balatociana. The IUCN Categories and Criteria assessment categorizes ten species as Critically Endangered, five as Endangered, and one as Vulnerable, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation actions.
The study highlights various threats faced by Rafflesia, including deforestation driven by commodities, shifting agriculture, urbanization, illegal forest harvesting, and plantation establishment. Alarmingly, half of the recorded Rafflesia sites are located outside designated protected areas, underscoring the necessity for conservation efforts beyond protected areas. Even within protected areas, Rafflesia species face habitat degradation and tree cover loss.
To ensure the sustainable conservation of these unique species, urgent actions are recommended to address the drivers of habitat loss, promote sustainable land-use practices, and establish more protected areas. Effective monitoring and collaboration among local communities, government agencies, and conservation organizations are vital for achieving positive conservation outcomes. Furthermore, strengthening legal frameworks and enforcement, habitat restoration efforts, regular monitoring, and raising awareness are identified as essential steps towards the recovery of Rafflesia species in the Philippines.