Roxan Eupena-Caray Mark Anthony J. Torres Liza A. Adamat Lady Jane G. Morilla Jessie G. Gorospe Cesar G. Demayo Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, North Eastern Mindanao State University, Tandag City, Philippines Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Mindanao State University- Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City, Philippines Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Mathematics, Western Mindanao State University, Zamboanga City, Philippines Mindanao State University-Naawan Campus, Misamis Oriental, Philippines Proceedings of the International Academy of Ecology and Environmental Sciences ISSN 2220-8860 http://www.iaees.org/publications/journals/piaees/online-version.asp 2024 14 4 159 168 International Academy of Ecology and Environmental Sciences Hong Kong 18 June 2024 25 July 2024 1 December 2024 microarthropod ecological roles agroecosystems secondary dipterocarp forests dipterocarp forests restoration The paper examines the diversity, abundance, and ecological roles of microarthropods in three habitats namely: agroecosystems, dipterocarp forests, and secondary mixed dipterocarp forests. Soil samples were taken from Mt. Hilong-hilong ecosystems, and microarthropods were extracted using a modified Berlese Tullgren funnel. The results showed 3,738 microarthropods belonging to 16 different groups, with Oribatida dominating the Acari group. Agroecosystems had low diversity but high abundance of Acari and Collembola, suggesting agricultural practices degrade soil biodiversity and ecosystem function. Dipterocarp forests had high diversity but lower abundance, reflecting the stability and complexity of undisturbed ecosystems. Secondary mixed dipterocarp forests showed moderate diversity and abundance, indicating transitional ecosystems recovering from past disturbances. This gradient reflects the varying degrees of habitat complexity, stability, and disturbance across the different land uses. The results highlight the significant impact of land-use change on soil biodiversity and offer valuable insights for designing effective restoration and conservation strategies to promote resilient and sustainable ecosystems. http://www.iaees.org/publications/journals/piaees/articles/2024-14(4)/microarthropod-composition.pdf