Geophysical Analysis of Volcanic Soils Influencing Microbial Habitat Dynamics on Taal Volcano Island

Authors

Ray Albert E. La Rosa, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute, PhilippinesFollow
Iluminada A. Ronio, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences InstituteFollow
Shaun Michael C. Basco, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences InstituteFollow
Martin Gabriel Z. Dela Cruz, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences InstituteFollow

Abstract

Taal Volcano Island in Batangas, Philippines, hosts an active post-caldera complex with a large hydrothermal system producing extreme soil environments. This study analyzed the geophysical and geochemical characteristics of shoreline soils to determine their potential as microbial habitats. Soil samples were collected at 14°02′04″N, 121°00′09″E, one meter below the surface of near newly formed vents. Physical parameters, including water content, bulk density, sedimentation, texture, and porosity, were measured alongside pH and temperature data. Results revealed sandy soil texture with 25% moisture, moderate compaction (1.66 g cm⁻³), high surface temperature (50 °C on-site; 72.7 °C PHIVOLCS data), and extreme acidity (pH 0.20). These geophysical factors create niches capable of supporting thermoacidophilic microbial life. The findings demonstrate the interrelationship between volcanic soil properties and microbial colonization potential in extreme environments.

Recommended Citation

La Rosa, Ray Albert E.; Ronio, Iluminada A.; Basco, Shaun Michael C.; and Dela Cruz, Martin Gabriel Z. (2025) "Geophysical Analysis of Volcanic Soils Influencing Microbial Habitat Dynamics on Taal Volcano Island," The Lasallian Journal of Health: Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 3.
Available at: https://greenprints.dlshsi.edu.ph/tljh/vol1/iss1/3