BukSU Partners with CMU and the California Academy of Sciences for an International Collaboration on Bryophyte Studies in Mindanao

The Botanical Gardens and Herbarium (BGH) of Bukidnon State University (BukSU) has partnered with Central Mindanao University (CMU) and the California Academy of Sciences (CAS), SAN FRANCISCO, USA, to advance the study of bryophyte diversity in Mindanao.

Bryophytes, a group of non-vascular plants including mosses, liverworts, and hornworts, play a crucial role in ecosystems but remain understudied and underappreciated, according to BGH Director and bryologist Dr. Lesley Casas Lubos.

“Mindanao, with its unique climatic and geological conditions, hosts a rich bryophyte flora that is yet to be fully documented and understood,” said Lubos.

The collaborative initiative, titled “Exploring Bryophyte Diversity in Mindanao: A Multidisciplinary Approach,” was launched on June 26, 2024, at BukSU’s Botanical Gardens.

Lubos highlighted that the project aims to fill the knowledge gap and contribute to the global scientific understanding of bryophyte diversity, particularly in Mindanao.

The partnership between BukSU, CMU, and CAS was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement. This international collaboration aims to pave the way for a comprehensive study integrating species documentation, ecological research, conservation strategies, and educational outreach.

“This exciting initiative will enable future research, as well as enhance research extension and instruction at the university,” said University President Dr. Joy Molina Mirasol. The project also aims to further strengthen BukSU’s commitment to protecting the province’s environmental heritage.

“This endeavor is not just a scientific pursuit but also a vital part of our responsibility to preserve the rich heritage resources of our province and Mindanao in general. Especially in terms of our environmental heritage, this initiative aligns perfectly with BukSU’s institutional outcomes,” said BukSU’s Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela.

BukSU has involved three of its colleges—Arts and Sciences, Public Administration and Governance, and Education—in the study, which is essential for holistic research. The College of Arts and Sciences provides expertise in biology, ecology, and mathematics, the College of Public Administration and Governance ensures sustainable conservation through policy-making and community engagement, and the College of Education disseminates knowledge and raises awareness through educational programs.

“Ultimately, the goal of ‘Exploring Bryophyte Diversity in Mindanao’ is not only to enhance our scientific understanding of these vital organisms but also to develop effective conservation strategies to protect and preserve Mindanao’s unique bryophyte flora for future generations,” added Lubos.

Renowned bryologist and CAS Botany Research Associate and Fellow Mr. James Shevock expressed his optimism that through this collaborative initiative, BukSU and CMU will gain further international recognition.

“These partnerships have made it possible for future students to benefit, and I am glad that CAS can contribute, even in a small way, to this process. I thank you all for your insights and willingness to expand and foster partnerships both here and internationally,” Shevock said.

“The project will be beneficial to BukSU Botanical Gardens and Herbarium, which serves as an excellent venue for ex-situ conservation of various plant species,” said Dr. Reggie Y. De la Cruz, Director of the Institute of Biological Sciences at CMU, representing CMU President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe.

The launch event was also attended by BukSU’s Vice President for Administration and Finance, Mr. Dante S. Victoria Jr., the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Maribel G. Valdez, the Dean of the College of Public Administration and Governance, Dr. Lalevie C. Lubos, and CMU Professor Emeritus Dr. Victor B. Amoroso.

The Botanical Gardens and Herbarium is one of BukSU’s laboratories for scientific, cultural, and academic studies. The gardens consist of ten sections, one of which is dedicated to bryophytes. (BukSU-Information Unit)