Thesis (BS Biology) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2007

This study was made to determine morphological differences among nipa stands in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur and Bincungan, Davao del Norte. Quantitative and qualitative characteristics were observed through the leaf and inflorescence of nipa. Observations on environmental conditions that might affect the palm were also performed. The relationships among parameters were established. Five areas were chosen to be studied: Tagabuli, Tuban 1, Tuban 2 in Sta. Cruz and Bincungan in Tagum City. The largest palms were found in Bincunganwhich has the longest rachis and petiole, as well as the largest petiole circumference and the greatest stamen length. Tuban 2 had the smallest palms., which has the shortest rachis and petiole, least petiole circumference and inflorescence as well as stamen length. For the rachis length and petiole circumference, all the areas were significantly different from each other. Leaflet number as well as the ratio of the number of leaflets per meter to rachis length was different among the areas. The leaflet number was observed to have a very high positive correlation with the rachis length. The ratio of the leaflet number per meter of the rachis length however has a high negative correlation with the rachis length and so with the leaflet number. In terms of inflorescence length, Tagabuli and Bincungan have the longest inflorescences and longest stamen and were not significantly different from each other. Stamen width however did not follow the pattern. Soil pH was significantly different among areas and affected growth of the nipa palms since it showed a high negative correlation with some of the parameters. A slightly acidic soil, which was only present in Bincungan, produced the largest nipa palms among the five areas