Plant diversity and ecology of ultramafic outcrops in Sabah (Malaysia)

Kinabalu Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, harbors one of the most species-rich ultramafic outcrops globally, with over 2542 plant species recorded, many of which are endemic to the park or Borneo. This study highlights the significant but understudied biodiversity and ecological importance of these outcrops, which occupy less than 1% of Earth's land surface yet support a high diversity of plants adapted to ultramafic soils. The research documents the flora, emphasizing the threat posed by land-use conversion, which could lead to localized extinctions due to the narrow distribution ranges of many species. The study combines field surveys and taxonomic documentation, providing a critical baseline for understanding and conserving this unique ecosystem.

van der Ent, A., Repin, R., Sugau, J., & Wong, K. M. (2015). Plant diversity and ecology of ultramafic outcrops in Sabah (Malaysia). Australian Journal of Botany, 63(4), 204–215. https://doi.org/10.1071/bt14214