Barbeyto, Angelika P.

April 22, 2014

C 7L
Appreciating the Beauty of Life through Nature
Last Saturday afternoon, our class had its ecological field investigation in the upper region of
University of the Philippines Los Banos College, Laguna. The purpose of the activity is to identify and
describe the abiotic and biotic components of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems; illustrate the horizontal
and vertical distribution of the biotic components of the two ecosystems; describe the effects of the biotic
on the abiotic components; infer the relationships of the biotic components of the two ecosystems; and
compare the effects of the abiotic components on the number, distribution, and adaptations of the biota in
the two ecosystems.
Our first destination was the Museum of Natural History. As we got off the jeepney and walk
towards the ancient establishment, our professor introduced us to various plants near the sidewalk that
were barely seen at the lower campus. There was also a mini garden where plants such as rhizomes can
be seen. We applied what we had discussed in class in identifying some of its distinct characteristics. We
went straight to the Museum of Natural History afterwards. It feels nostalgic entering since I already had a
field trip in the area during my second year in high school. We were welcomed with bats freely flying on
top of the ceiling. The first section was the exhibit of the museums history. Our professor further
discussed from the museums very first director up the present and significant personalities that have
greatly contributed to its discoveries. Each room was filled with numerous preserved biological and
zoological specimens. I even remember a certain area where me and my girl classmates during my
second year in high school had taken a picture of. It made me realize how time passes by so fast; how
the place I had taken tour years ago will have a significant role in my life- a place that will nurture me into
a better individual and help me in fulfilling my dreams.
Afterwards, we went within the forest which is just few meters away. The path inside was
challenging for it was slippery and a lot of trunks from knocked down trees are blocking the way. One can
hear the gusting of the wind on the process. It made me feel like Thanks to the towering trees around,
there was minimum amount of sunlight and the air was slightly humid. One can barely see the soil since it
was covered with leaves and twigs falling from the trees. Various plants that sprout from nowhere can be
observed. I have not spotted any rare creature; maybe, they are hidden deep within the forest.
Our last destination was Makiling Botanic Garden. We examined plants and identified what kind
of fruits it bear and so do its inflorescence. Plants that are endemic in the Philippines can also be
observed. Unfortunately, we have not had the chance to appreciate everything including the coolness of
the stream because it is getting dark and we are running out of time.
Our country is truly blessed with rich biodiversity. It may be clich but the only thing we could do
is to preserve and utilize it properly. We, Filipinos and no one else, have the responsibility over it. This
activity did not just allow us to connect with nature but to our classmates as well. Our section became one
as we identify the features of a plant.