of coastal, marine and freshwater ecosystems. The dominant vegetation is mangrove (Scyphiphora acidula/nilad and Diospyros ferrea/bantolinao) which lines the coast of mainland Guiuan and covers most of the islands. Terrestrial species of hardwood trees have also been observed in the larger islands such as Shorea astylosa (yakal), Xanthostemon verdugonianus (mancono), Vitex quinata (colipapa), and Tristaniopsis decorticata (tiga). Seagrass beds are common and extensive in the protected area, with the most common seagrass species being Cymodocea rotundata, Enhalus acoroides, Thalassia hemprichii, and Syringodium isoetifolium. Coral diversity is highest at Suluan island where 25 species hard and soft corals are found. They serve as habitats for many colonies of fish, such as barracuda, marlin and scombrid, and other marine species like marine turtles, octopus, squid and seacucumber. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources also documented the following wildlife species in the area in 2008: the Philippine tarsier and Philippine long-tailed macaque, and bird species such as the Philippine cockatoo, herons, migratory egrets, bitterns, plovers, sandpipers, gulls and terns. Several reptiles were also sighted in the area, including monitor lizards and sailfin lizards. References Protected landscapes and seascapes of the Philippines Geography of Eastern Samar Tourist attractions in Eastern Samar Guiuan Protected areas established in 1978 1978 establishments in the Philippines