Pittosporum peridoticola (Pittosporaceae), a new ultramafic obligate species restricted to Kinabalu Park (Sabah, Malaysia)

A new species of Pittosporum, P. peridoticola, has been discovered on Mount Tambuyukon within Kinabalu Park, Sabah, Malaysia. This ultramafic obligate species is restricted to the protected area and exhibits distinct morphological traits adapted to its unique habitat. Analysis of soil chemistry in its rooting zone revealed high magnesium-to-calcium ratios, elevated nickel and manganese concentrations, but low potassium and phosphorus levels, typical of ultramafic soils. Foliar elemental stoichiometry analysis suggested an 'Excluder-type' ecophysiology shared among Pittosporum species from both ultramafic and non-ultramafic soils. With only two known populations, P. peridoticola is vulnerable to stochastic disturbances like forest fires or severe droughts, warranting a conservation status of 'Near Threatened'.

Sugau, J. B., & van der Ent, A. (2015). Pittosporum peridoticola (Pittosporaceae), a new ultramafic obligate species restricted to Kinabalu Park (Sabah, Malaysia). Botanical Studies, 57(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40529-016-0119-9