Abstract:
This study represents the first attempt to evaluate the ecological index and economic potential
of marine bivalves and gastropods on Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines. Two 2,000 m²
sampling areas were plotted at two selected sites in the southern part of the island. Purposive
sampling was applied during low tide over four consecutive days. Environmental parameters,
including temperature, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen, were also recorded. The ecological
index, including species richness, evenness, and diversity, were calculated for the gathered mollusk
species. The potential economic value of these mollusks was analysed using references
from published journals, books, and other sources. A total of 3,280 individuals of gastropods
and bivalves were collected, representing 18 families, 39 genera, and 77 species for gastropods,
and 4 families, 6 genera, and 15 species of bivalves. The species diversity index was 3.45 (very
high), species dominance index was 1.02 (high), the species evenness index was 0.51 (relatively
even), and species richness was 8.01 (high). Environmental factors were temperature (29.20-
30.70◦C), pH (7.94-8.45), salinity (36.01-37.90 ppt), and dissolved oxygen (6.54-16.67%). Of
the total 92 mollusk species, 32 were edible, 16 were used in shell craft and trade, and 9 had
biological, ecological, medicinal, or ethnozoological significance. These findings provide data
essential for establishing the current status, sustainable management, and conservation efforts
for mollusk species in the region, supporting potential developments in fisheries.
