Species Richness and Composition of Alien Plant Species in Marai Parai, Kinabalu Park, Malaysia

Abstract

The spread of invasive alien plant species poses a significant challenge to global biodiversity, particularly in protected areas like Kinabalu Park in Sabah, Malaysia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This study investigates the species richness and composition of alien plants along two trails from Kampung Kiau Nuluh to Marai Parai on Mount Kinabalu's western slope, within an ultramafic forest ecosystem. The old trail spans elevations from 880 m to 1,670 m, while the new trails ranges from 1,020 m to 1,470 m. Opportunistic sampling yielded 102 specimens of alien plants, representing 76 species across 30 families. The old trail exhibited greater species richness (66 species) compared to the new trail (23 species), influenced by its proximity to the densely populated Kampung Kiau Nuluh. Many alien plants along the old trail were planted for ornamental purposes, while others spread naturally. The Asteraceae family, notably Ageratum conyzoides L. and Bidens pilosa L., are particularly invasive in Marai Parai. To address this, enhanced monitoring, public awareness initiatives, and collaboration with the Kampung Kiau Nuluh community are recommended to curb the spread of alien plants and protect indigenous biodiversity. This research highlights the need for understanding alien plant dynamic to manage conservation efforts in Kinabalu Park effectively.