Checklist Of Wild Orchids Along Marai Parai Trail

Abstract

The term Marai Parai, in the Dusun language referring to a type of grass-like sedge known as Tetraria pilisepala (Steud.) Larridon. The area is located northwest of Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia. This highland region has the potential to be developed as an eco-tourism location and as an alternative route to the summit of Mount Kinabalu. Several studies in this area have reported the discovery of an endemic species such as Nepenthes rajah Hook.f., Drosera ultramafica A.Fleischm., A.S.Rob. & S.McPherson. and Dendrobium kinabaluensis Ridl. Therefore, this study was conducted to survey the richness of orchid species that can be found along the way from Kiau Village to Marai Parai Plateau. The species were photographed, and their morphological characteristics were noted. A total of 51 species were recorded including one species that is new to sciences and in the process of description and verification. This data will be an additional checklist of orchid species from this alternative route. Results from this study is expected to serve as references and guidelines for future sustainable management plans for the Marai Parai route to the summit of Mount Kinabalu.