Revision of Begonia (Begoniaceae) from the Melinau Limestone in Gunung Mulu National Park and Gunung Buda National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, including thirteen new species

A comprehensive taxonomic revision of Begonia species (Begoniaceae) from the Melinau limestone in Gunung Mulu National Park and Gunung Buda National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, reveals 13 new species, including Begonia apiensis, B. benaratensis, B. conniegeriae, B. divergens, B. lucychongiana, B. magentifolia, B. melinauensis, B. ramosissima, B. rhodoneura, B. umbratica, B. vulgare, B. yiii, and B. xiphophylloides. Additionally, a putative natural hybrid between B. conipila and B. lucychongiana is described. All species are endemic to the Melinau limestone, with 10 restricted to limestone habitats, highlighting the region's unique biodiversity. The study also documents the vegetation types and habitats of each species, noting that B. apiensis is Rare due to its extreme localization and threat from tourist activities, while others are Least Concern under IUCN criteria.

SANG, J., KIEW, R., & GERI, C. (2013). Revision of Begonia (Begoniaceae) from the Melinau Limestone in Gunung Mulu National Park and Gunung Buda National Park, Sarawak, Borneo, including thirteen new species. Phytotaxa, 99(1). https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.99.1.1