Sex: Male
Education:
Doctor in Philosophy in Conservation Biology, Bangor University United Kingdom, 2021
Master of Science in Biology major in Taxonomy, Central Mindanao University, 2014
Bachelor of Science in Biology, Central Mindanao University, 2008
Field of Specialization:
Biocultural conservation
Indigenous food system
Researches:
Article title: Any alternatives to rice? Ethnobotanical insights into the dietary use of edible plants by the Higaonon tribe in Bukidnon Province, the Philippines
Authors: Dave Paladin Buenavistaa, Eefke Maria Molleeb, Morag McDonald
Publication title: Regional Sustainability 3: 5-109, 2022
Abstract:
Though considered an agricultural country, the Philippines is the world’s largest importer of rice. The persistent problem of insufficient rice supply, however, has been exacerbated by economic crises and natural calamities. Yet, for the Higaonon tribe in Bukidnon Province, the Philippines, the rich agrobiodiversity and wild edible plants are vital for food security and resilience since the mountainous terrain in this province presents a challenge for rice cultivation. To gain insight from the indigenous edible plant knowledge of the Higaonon tribe, we conducted an ethnobotanical research to document the diversity, utilization, and biocultural refugia of both cultivated and wild edible plants. A total of 76 edible plant species belonging to 62 genera and 36 botanical families were documented. The most represented botanical families included the Fabaceae, Solanaceae, and Zingiberaceae. In terms of dietary usage, 3 species were categorized as cereals; 8 species were white roots, tubers, and plantains; 3 species were vitamin A-rich vegetables and tubers; 16 species were green leafy vegetables; 12 species were categorized as other vegetables; 2 species were vitamin A-rich fruits; 27 species were classified as other fruits; 7 species were legumes, nuts, and seeds; and 8 species were used as spices, condiments, and beverages. Using the statistical software R with ethnobotanyR package, we further calculated the ethnobotanical indices (use-report (UR), use-value (UV), number of use (NU), and fidelity level (FL)) from 1254 URs in all 9 food use-categories. The species with the highest UV and UR were from a variety of nutrient-rich edible plants such as Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam., Musa species, Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott, Zea mays L., and Manihot esculenta Crantz. The extensive utilization of root and tuber crops along with corn and plantain that contain a higher amount of energy and protein, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins were shown to be an important nutrient-rich alternatives to rice. Whilst males appeared to be more knowledgeable of edible plant species collected from the forests and communal areas, there were no significant differences between males and females in terms of knowledge of edible plants collected from homegardens, riverbanks, and farms. The various food collection sites of the Higaonon tribe may be considered as food biocultural refugia given their socio-ecological function in food security, biodiversity conservation, and preservation of indigenous knowledge.
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/3ewkbtee
Article title: From poison to food: On the molecular identity and indigenous peoples' utilisation of poisonous "Lab-o" (Wild Yam, Dioscoreaceae) in Bukidnon, Philippines
Authors: Dave P. Buenavista , Nikko Manuel A. Dinopol , Eefke Mollee & Morag McDonald
Publication title: Cogent Food And Agriculture 7(1870306): 1-13, 2021
Abstract:
Like any other country in the tropical and subtropical regions, wild yams are considered an important food by many indigenous peoples in the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia. Yet, cases of intoxication and even death have been reported due to wild yam consumption. Unfortunately, some locals cannot differentiate the edible from the poisonous species that require further processing whilst ethnobotanical information remains scarce. In this study, we determined the identity of a poisonous wild yam locally known as “Lab-o” to the Higaonon tribe of Bukidnon province in the Mindanao island, Philippines. Due to highly diverse morphological variations within species and varieties of yams, “Lab-o” was identified through DNA barcoding. Based on the BLASTn analysis, the wild yam in question was identified as Dioscorea hispida Dennst. which further confirms the reported toxicity of the yam. To bridge scientific knowledge and indigenous knowledge system, we also explored the traditional processing methods of wild yam detoxification practiced by various indigenous cultures. The DNA barcoding protocol described in this study may serve as a reference to accurately identify the plant in the wild. The poisonous yams may be labelled with appropriate warnings and preparation guides as preventive information measures to avoid the incidences of poisoning and death. The indigenous knowledge and practices associated with the utilisation of Dioscorea hispida Dennst. and other neglected and underutilised plant resources could be likewise considered in addressing food safety and food insecurity in the Asian region.
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/2xk7zbp4
Article title: Begonia bangsamoro (Begoniaceae, section Petermannia), a new species from Mindanao Island, the Philippines
Authors: Dave Buenavista, Yu Pin Ang, Mc Andrew Pranada, Daryl S. Salas, Eefke Mollee, M.A Mcdonald
Publication title: Phytotaxa 497(1): 39–48, 2021
Abstract:
Begonia bangsamoro, a new Philippine Begonia species from the section Petermannia is described and illustrated. The new species was discovered in the fragmented riparian forest of Lanao del Sur, along the Ginapukan river in Wao, Mindanao island, Philippines. The previous collections also revealed that it occurs in the nearby province of Bukidnon. Begonia bangsamoro is distinguished from other Philippine Begonia by its lacerate leaf margins, terminal inflorescences, 4-tepaled staminate flowers, and sparsely hirsute ovaries. The new species is compared with the phenetically similar B. quercifolia. Based on IUCN Red List criteria, B. bangsamoro is designated as Endangered (EN).
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/mrxrrzz8
Article title: Asian Indigeneity, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, and Challenges of the 2030 Agenda
Authors: Dave P. Buenavista, Sophie Wynne‑Jones, Morag McDonald
Publication title: East Asian Community Review 1: 221-240, 2018
Abstract:
Adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015, the 2030 Agenda pledges to leave no one behind through the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 targets were ratified by the international community to address the global challenges of our time. This framework and universal action plan articulate the inclusion of the indigenous peoples in the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. Nonetheless, the world’s largest populations of indigenous peoples are in Asia. However, despite the affirmation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the concept of indigeneity is still controversial, politically contested, and considered immaterial by many states in the Asian region. With limited rights and inadequate access to social services, indigenous knowledge systems and practices have evolved through time to provide solutions to local problems that marginalized many communities. This article revisits the sociopolitical notion of indigeneity in the region and its implications for the indigenous community. It also explores the diversity of indigenous knowledge systems and traditional practices and its relevance to the SDGs, particularly on food security, community livelihoods, human well-being, natural resources management, and biodiversity conservation. The conclusion reflects the need for legitimate recognition and political enablement of indigenous peoples in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda by forging collaborations between academic researchers, policy-makers, and indigenous organizations in the Asian community
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/2xc9p2nv
Article title: Comparative morpho-anatomical studies of Hoya incrassata and Hoya soligamiana (Apocynaceae) from Mount Hamiguitan, Philippines
Authors: D.S. Salas, E.B. Sinamban and D.P. Buenavista
Publication title: Ruhuna Journal of Science 9(1), 2018
Abstract:
This study compared the morpho-anatomical characters of two horticulturally important hoyas endemic to the Philippines viz., Hoya incrassata and Hoya soligamiana. Fresh cuttings were used for morphological and anatomical measurements. Free hand sections were taken from leaves, shoots and roots for determination of structural differences. Leaf pigments were cleared to observe the venation and stomatal arrangement. The results showed that hoyas differ in their leaf shape and texture, flower colour, and the inflorescence shape and position. H. soligamiana has glabrous lanceolate leaves, whitish to creamy petals, purplish to pink inner and outer coronal lobes, and whitish to pink fused sepals. H. incrassata has coriaceous lance-ovate leaves, whitish to yellowish fused petals, yellow inner coronal lobes, reddish to orange outer coronal lobes, and fused sepals. The measured anatomical traits in the cross sections of roots and stems of the two Hoya species did not differ with the exception of stomatal types and arrangement in the leaves. The pigment clearing of the leaves showed that H. incrassata has sunken cyclocytic stomata while H. soligamiana has actinocytic stomata. Morpho-anatomical information provides taxonomic value for identifying and classifying the two Hoya species.
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/56hr5ck4
Article title: New Distributional Records of Utricularia striatula Smith (Lentibulariaceae) in Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Mark Arcebal Kling Naive, Dave Buenavista, Noe Mendez
Publication title: Philippine Journal of Systematic Biology 11(2), 2018
Abstract:
Utricularia striatula (Lentibulariaceae) is reported for the first time in the Southern Philippines and represents a new record for Mindanao Island. Full descriptions of the species, its habitat ecology, along with photographs are provided.
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/4m6vjkd5
Article title: Elevational Pattern of Orchid Rarity and Endemism in Mt. Kalatungan, Mindanao Island, Philippines
Authors: Jessa Marie Garsuta Betanio and Dave Paladin Buenavista
Publication title: Journal of Tropical Life Science 8(2):108-115, 2018
Abstract:
Despite being the Philippines most threatened group of plants, ecological studies on the orchid flora remains to be scanty and poorly studied which become an impediment to their conservation. This study aimed to identify the forest zones and species of conservation priority with an emphasis on the rare and endemic orchid species. A field investigation was carried out using a line transect and plot-sampling methods established along the elevational zones of Mt. Kalatungan Range National Park. Results showed the presence of 44 orchid species belonging to 28 genera, 39 (91%) species of orchids are Philippine endemic with eight new records. The elevational pattern of species followed a double humped-shaped pattern at 1,320-1,395 m and 1,886-1,965 m above sea levels (masl). Based on rarity index, 35 (83%) species are very rare, three (7%) are sparse, three (7%) common and one (3%) is common. The density of endemism was recorded to increase as elevation increases which peaked at 1,886-1,965 masl but declines at 2,000 masl Findings of the study suggest that the elevational pattern of orchid species follows a humped-shaped pattern wherein species richness is highest in the middle of the elevation gradient.
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/5883w6f9
Article title: Histochemical Screening and Medicinal Potentials of Garuga floribunda in Mindanao Island, Philippines
Authors: Dave Buenavista and Marilag Mateo
Publication title: Annals of West University of Timişoara, ser. Biology 2: 147-152, 2017
Abstract:
This study was conducted to determine the bioactive components of Garuga floribunda (Burseraceae) used by the villagers of Bukidnon, Mindanao Island, Philippines, used in various ethno-veterinary practices as well in traditional medicine in other Asian region. Histochemical analyses of the stem of Garuga floribunda showed presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, oxalic acid, formic acid, tartaric acid, fats and oils localized in various tissues. This includes sclerenchymatous peridem, collenchyma cells in the cortex, phloem, xylem and vascular cambium and parenchymatous pith tissue of the stem. This study confirms the presence of alkaloids, arbutin, fats and oils, saponins, tannins as well as organic acids such as oxalic, formic and tartaric acid. The presence of bioactive compounds such as tannins suggests the potential antihelmintic properties of the plant as reported in traditional medicine.
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/p3rh63wk
Article title: Contributions to the orchid flora of Mindanao Long-Term Ecological Research Sites, Philippines
Authors: Dave P. Buenavista
Publication title: Biologica Nyssana 8(1):31-38, 2017
Abstract:
This contribution is based on the field studies on wild orchids conducted from September 2012 to November 2013 in one-hectare plots in five Long-Term Ecological Research Sites in Mindanao Island, Philippines. The family Orchidaceae is the most threatened group of plants in the Philippines however, it remains to be poorly known and understudied. This is the first preliminary report on the species richness and distribution of wild orchids in the identified research sites. A list of 79 orchid species belonging to 34 genera which represents approximately 7% of the known orchid species in the Philippines. A total of 40 endemics and 3 threatened species were recorded in the sites. This list can be use as basis for future biodiversity assessment and conservation initiatives to identify and prioritize areas for immediate conservation of threatened and endemic orchid species as well as the vulnerable mountain ecosystems.
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/5crv5d99
Article title: Amphibian and reptile diversity in Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park, Philippines
Authors: Angela Grace Toledo-Bruno, Daryl G. Macas, Dave P. Buenavista, Michael Arieh P. Medina, Ronald Regan C. Forten
Publication title: Environmental and Experimental Biology 15(2):127-135, 2017
Abstract:
Herpetofauna inventory was conducted in the montane forest of Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park. Sampling plots were established in the lower montane at 1200 to 1400 m above sea level and upper montane at 1400 to 1600 m above sea level. Using a combination of pitfall trap and visual encounter methods, a total of 202 individuals were recorded belonging to 15 species, nine families and 12 genera, six of which are Mindanao endemic species. Five species belong to the IUCN Red List, which includes Limnonectes magnus, Ansonia muelleri, Ansonia mcgregori, Philautus acutirostris and Rhacophorus bimaculatus. Richness and diversity indices were consistently higher in the upper montane than in the lower montane. Similarity index of the two sites was only 26%, which implies that herpetofauna have specific habitat and food requirements for their survival. Threats in the area include habitat disturbance due to forest fire and conversion of forest to agriculture. These threats should be the focus of conservation efforts of local government units and the community to protect the habitat of these wildlife.
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/yc8zmr5x
Article title: A New Cylindrolobus (Orchidaceae) species from Bukidnon, Philippines
Authors: Mark Arcebal Kling Naive, Miguel David De Leon, Dave Buenavista
Publication title: Orchideen Journal 4(5), 2016
Abstract:
A new Cylindrolobus species from northern Mindanao was found in the ancestral domain of the Talaandig tribe of Bukidnon, on Mindanao. A search of the relevant literature for the Philippines and its neighboring countries was conducted and no matching species could be found. We take this opportunity to name this species as Cylindrolobus datuguinai Naive, M.D. De Leon & Buenavista
Full text link https://tinyurl.com/5emnr8xf