The Sabah Parks Nature Journal is devoted to the publication of research papers, short notes or communications, reports, and reviews in all fields that are of general relevance to research and conservation including investigations on biodiversity, systematics and taxonomy, experimental biology, applied ecology, wildlife management, and control, ethnobotany and ethnozoology natural product chemistry and ecotourism. Manuscripts submitted to Sabah Parks Nature Journal should comprise original, unpublished material and should not currently be under consideration for publication elsewhere.
Preliminary Checklist Of Alien Plant Species From Sayap Peak, Mount Kinabalu
Alien plant species (APS) can significantly threaten biodiversity, especially in protected areas where native ecosystems are expected to remain intact. This study presents the first preliminary checklist of APS from Sayap Peak, Mount Kinabalu, to support conservation and management efforts. A scientific expedition was conducted along the trail from Sayap Substation to Sayap Peak, Mount Kinabalu. Opportunistic plant sampling was carried out across four trail segments, encompassing various elevations and habitat types. Fifteen APS specimens were collected along the trails, representing 14 species from eight families. The Asteraceae family was the most dominant, accounting for 50% of the recorded APS. Notably, Chromolaena odorata (Siam weed) and Mikania micrantha (mile-a-minute weed), both listed among the world's 100 worst invasive species, were documented in the study area, indicating potential threats to native plant communities. These findings underscore the need for continued monitoring and management of APS at Sayap Peak, particularly along human-accessible trails. This study provides an essential baseline for future research and enhances understanding of APS dynamics in tropical montane ecosystems.
The First Records Of The Cockroach Rhabdoblatta Circumdata (Hanitsch, 1915) From Sabah (Insecta: Blattodea: Epilamprinae)
The cockroach Rhabdoblatta circumdata (Hanitsch, 1915) has previously only been recorded from Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Sarawak. Here it is recorded from six localities in Sabah, two new localities in Sarawak, and one in Peninsular Malaysia. Five of the localities in Sabah are in National Parks, two in the Crocker Range Park, and three in the Kinabalu Park. A distribution map for is provided for the species. The nymph and adult are illustrated.
An Initial Investigation Into The Diversity Of Pandanaceae In Tuaran, Sabah
This preliminary study investigated the diversity of Pandanaceae in Tuaran, Sabah, with emphasis on species richness and their uses. The rapid assessments led to the identification of two species, Benstonea gibbsiana and Pandanus odorifer as well as the documentation of one ethnobotanical use, highlighting the cultural significance of pandan to the local community in Kampung Penimbawan. These findings contribute to baseline data on Tuaran’s Pandanaceae diversity and traditional knowledge, thus providing a foundation for future research in plant diversity and ethnobotany.
Mosses From Tuaran District, Malaysian Borneo
A bryological survey was conducted in the Tuaran District of Sabah, an understudied lowland area within the proposed expansion zone of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark. The five-day survey recorded 82 species of mosses, representing 43 genera and 23 families. This includes one new record for Borneo (Rhaphidostichum loriforme) and one for Sabah (Phyllodon lingulatus). The dominant families were Calymperaceae, Fissidentaceae and Sematophyllaceae, which are commonly abundant in lowland forests. These findings highlight the biodiversity significance of lowland habitats and provide essential baseline data to support conservation planning, research and environmental education within the geopark’s proposed extended boundary.
Short Notes On Mangrove Vegetation In The Proposed Extension Of Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark (KUGGP)
This study documented the mangrove vegetation within the proposed extension of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark (KUGGp) with transect surveys sampling conducted across four sites: Sulaman Lake Area, Sungai Kindu Kampung Serusop, and Sungai Betutai. Field surveys were carried out over three days using both terrestrial and marine observations, and a total of 24 mangrove species were identified, comprising 12 exclusive and 12 associate species. Among the surveyed zones, Kampung Serusop exhibited the highest species richness with 18 species, followed by Sungai Betutai (9 species), Sungai Kindu (7 species), and Sulaman Lake Area (5 species). Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophora mucronata were the most widely distributed species, occurring in all four zones, while other species such as Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Avicennia alba and Ceriops tagal were restricted to specific locations, highlighting localised habitat conditions. The higher diversity observed in Kampung Serusop was attributed to the use of both terrestrial and marine survey methods. These findings emphasized the ecological importance of mangrove habitats in the proposed KUGGp extension area, underscoring their role in supporting biodiversity and providing critical ecosystem services. To preserve the long-term sustainability of Sabah's mangrove ecosystems, these zones had to be included in future conservation and management plans.
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Preliminary Study On Orchid Species At Sulaman Lake Forest Reserve (Slfr) To Tuaran – Kota Belud Border Area
A preliminary study on orchid species was carried out during the Geo Sulaman Scientific Expedition (EGOS) 2025 in Tuaran, Sabah. Orchid diversity in secondary and disturbed forests is still poorly understood, even though they are ecologically important and indicators of forest health. Therefore, this study was conducted to survey the richness of orchid species that can be found in two forest reserves: (i) Hutan Simpan Lema’as (Zone 1) and (ii) Hutan Simpan Kelawat (Zone 2); and two eco-tourism area in Zone 5: (i) Murug Turug and (ii) Monggiland. Therefore, the surveys were conducted along an easily accessible trails to record orchid species. The species were photographed, and their morphological characteristics were noted. A total of seven individual orchids were recorded in Hutan Simpan Kelawat, eight individuals along the Murug Turug Trail, and three individuals of orchids along the Monggiland Trail. However, none of the orchids were found in Hutan Simpan Lema’as. A total of 10 orchid genera were recorded along the surveyed trails, namely Aerides, Arachnis, Bulbophyllum, Dendrobium, Neuwiedia, Oncidium, Phalaenopsis, Thecopus, Vanilla, and Vrydagzynea. These results underscore the need for additional ecological surveys and imply that conditions of the habitat have an impact on orchid presence. Such initiatives are important for understanding local biodiversity and creating successful conservation plans.
Diversity Of Araceae And Its Usage By Communities On Tuaran – Kota Belud Forest Reserve Border, Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark
The Araceae family is one of the most diverse plant families in tropical Asia and plays an important ecological and cultural role in the forests of Sabah, Malaysia. However, the extent of its utilization by local communities remains underexplored. This study aims to examine the diversity of wild Araceae species and their usage by communities residing along the Tuaran – Kota Belud border. Field surveys to document Araceae species presence were conducted in four locations which are Monggiland Waterfall Ecotourism (MWE), Murug Turug Ecotourism (MTE), Lema’as Forest Reserve (LFR), and Kelawat Forest Reserve (KFR). Meanwhile, the questionnaire survey on the use of Araceae by the community was conducted in seven villages located across the different designated study zones. As a results, total of 46 Araceae species from 19 genera were recorded across the study sites, with MWE exhibiting the highest diversity (H' = 3.27), while KFR recorded none. Despite the high species richness, only a small number of species were actively used by the community for food, medicinal purposes, ornamental use, and as food wrappers. Zones with greater forest coverage, such as Zone 5, demonstrated more active use of Araceae, whereas urban areas like Zone 3 showed limited interaction. These findings highlight how proximity to forested areas and land use patterns influence the degree of plant utilization. The study concludes that although Araceae diversity in the region is high, its use remains limited and localized, suggesting a need for targeted conservation strategies that consider both ecological values and community livelihoods.
Proboscis Monkey Survey In Sulaman Lake Forest Reserve, Tuaran, Sabah
Surveying primate populations is important for understanding their distribution and abundance, providing baseline data to guide conservation planning and future monitoring. This is particularly relevant for threatened species such as the proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus), an iconic Bornean endemic whose population status remains poorly documented in many parts of its range. As part of a scientific expedition for the proposed extension of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark (KUGGp), a brief boat-based proboscis monkey survey was conducted from 21st to 24th April 2025 in the Sulaman Lake Forest Reserve (SLFR), Tuaran, Sabah. No proboscis monkeys were directly sighted during the survey, although a few solitary long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) were observed. Local residents, however, reported that a small group of six to seven proboscis monkeys is found within an isolated patch of mangrove forest along the Papat River in SLFR, although sightings are rare. This remnant mangrove habitat, despite being disturbed and highly fragmented, appears to support this elusive group, highlighting its conservation value. Yet the rarity of sightings suggests that the group may be close to its ecological limit, increasing the risk of local extinction if further habitat loss occurs. Inclusion of SLFR in the KUGGp expansion could help strengthen long-term protection and management efforts for this species in the area.
First Survey Of The Herpetofauna Of Tasik Sulaman Forest Reserve And Nearby Areas, Sabah
The Tasik Sulaman Forest Reserve (TSFR) is in Tuaran District along the northwest coast of Sabah, East Malaysia. The habitat is composed largely of coastal forest and mangroves that support numerous intertidal species such as congregating fireflies. Further inland, towards the base of Mount Kinabalu, there are many waterfalls within lowland rainforest habitat. Over the course of four nights, 18 frog species, 12 lizard species, six snake species and one crocodilian were recorded. The predominant frog family recorded was Ranidae (five species), while for the lizards it was Gekkonidae (seven species), and for the snakes it was Colubridae (three species). Given the expanse of the area covered, the composition of the species recorded in this study is a mixture of forest-dwelling species and generalist that are adapted to more anthropogenically altered habitats. This study is the first to document the herpetofauna found in TSFR in detail and resulted in the first record of the Dark-sided Chorus Frog (Microhyla heymonsi) in Borneo. The records gathered during this study will not only be important for the conservation of species in the area but also contribute valuable data for the proposed expansion of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark to encompass TSFR.
Checklist of Alien Plant Species in Tuaran, Sabah
Alien plant species (APS) pose a significant threat to native biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, particularly in tropical regions. This study presents a comprehensive checklist of APS in Tuaran, Sabah, based on field surveys conducted across multiple sites. A total of 123 specimens were collected, representing 82 species from 32 families. The most represented families were Asteraceae and Fabaceae, followed by Lamiaceae. Several species, including Chromolaena odorata, Lantana camara, Miconia crenata, Mikania micrantha, and Sphagneticola trilobata, are listed among the 100 worst invasive alien species globally, highlighting a high invasion risk. The distribution of APS varied across surveyed sites, with certain zones exhibiting higher species richness. The inclusion of the Sulaman area, Tuaran in the proposed Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark expansion underscores the need for targeted monitoring and management strategies to prevent further spread of APS, restore disturbed habitats, and protect native biodiversity. This checklist provides a baseline for future studies and conservation planning in the region.
Low Number Of Non-Volant Small Mammals At Nunuk-Marai Parai, Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia
The population of small mammals in Malaysia exhibits significant variation. These creatures fulfil crucial functions within diverse ecosystems, contributing to the preservation of forest environments and the overall health of landscapes. Additionally, they play a vital role in local food chains, participating in prey-predator interactions that have a direct impact on their distribution and overall diversity. The objective of this investigation is to meticulously observe and document the non-flying mammal species that inhabit Nunuk-Marai Parai. The collection of samples was conducted over a span of seven days, employing a total of 20 cage traps and 20 pitfalls to effectively capture the small mammals. The identification of species was carried out by examining morphological characteristics, such as measuring body size, observing fur colour, and assessing tail shape. During the study, a total of six non-volant small mammals were captured. These included one species of tree shrew, Tupaia gracilis, and three species of rats namely Leopoldamys sabanus, Maxomys surifer, and Maxomys ochraceiventer. Furthermore, no shrews were captured during the duration of the study. The trapping success was found to be low, with a limited number of individuals captured during the designated sampling period. Enhancing the level of sampling effort could potentially enhance the probability of successfully capturing the animals in question. This study can serve as a valuable resource for future revisions of conservation and sustainable management plans in this specific area.
Mosquitoes Of The Marai Parai - Gurkha Hut, Kota Belud Area, Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia
A mosquito study was conducted during the Marai Parai-Gurkha Hut Scientific Expedition at the Kota Belud area, Ranau, Sabah from 7th to 20th October 2023. The study aimed to record mosquito species along the trail from Marai Parai station to Gurkha Hut station, focusing especially species that have the potential to spread diseases to humans. Sampling sessions were conducted at three sampling sites: Kg Kiau Nuluh Basecamp, Nunuk Subcamp, and Marai Parai Subcamp. Mosquitoes were collected using standard approaches, including the Human Landing Catch (HLC) and Daytime Resting Collection techniques. A total of four genera of mosquitoes were recorded from Kg Kiau Nuluh Basecamp and Nunuk Subcamp, with Aedes albopictus (16.67%, n = 7) and Armigeres subalbatus (16.67%, n = 7) being the most common species, followed by Aedes sp. (9.52%, n = 4), Anopheles aitkenii (9.52%, n = 4), Armigeres moultoni (9.52%, n = 4), and Armigeres giveni (9.52%, n = 4). Additionally, female mosquitoes were found to be predominant across all species. The findings from this study can serve as baseline data for further ecological studies and monitoring of vector control in the area.
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Termite Fauna Of Marai Parai - Gurkha Hut, Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia
Termites are essential for soil health, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients, which supports plant growth and biodiversity, making their species composition crucial for maintaining the balance and resilience of natural ecosystems. This paper presents a preliminary checklist of termite species collected from Nunuk Subcamp, part of Marai Parai Gurkha Hut area. Termites were manually collected using standardized 100 m x 2 m belt transect. A total of 19 termite species of 13 genera of two families (Rhinotermitidae and Termitidae), were documented within the forest sites of Nunuk Subcamp. The assemblage is dominated by the family Termitidae (90%), the largest and most common family comprising of both soil and wood dwelling termites. Wood feeders dominated the assemblage, making up 48% of the composition, indicating their prevalence in the study area, followed by soil-feeders at 42%, highlighting their significant presence in the local termite community. The termite diversity in this area is notably lower compared to what is typically found in Malaysian primary forests, where all the mentioned termite species are commonly observed.
Species Richness And Abundance Of Rhododendrons Along The Marai Parai To West Gurkha Hut Trail
A survey conducted from October 6th to 12th, 2023, along the Marai Parai to West Gurkha Hut trails in the Mount Kinabalu area, has revealed important insights into the distribution and abundance of Rhododendron species. The survey results show considerable variation in Rhododendron populations across different elevations and habitats. Notably, Transect 7 recorded the highest number of individuals (640) and species diversity (4), suggesting this area may serve as a key hotspot for Rhododendron diversity. Transect 8 followed closely with 533 individuals and 2 species. In contrast, no Rhododendron individuals were detected in Transects 1, 3, and 11, located at elevations of 1,043 m, 1,529 m, and 3,660 m above sea level (a.s.l), respectively. Overall, 15 distinct species were identified in the Marai Parai region, with eight species observed along the trail from Marai Parai to West Gurkha Hut. These findings underscore the ecological significance of the region as a biodiversity hotspot and emphasize the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to protect these species.
The Distribution Of The Carnivorous Plant Nepenthes (Nepenthaceae) In Marai Parai, Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia
Nepenthes (Nepenthaceae), a carnivorous plant, is notable for its character and carnivory constancy. This genus provides an excellent structure for studying the taxonomy and evolution of Nepenthes in relation to their functions and habitats. However, because of the complexity of Nepenthes evolution and taxonomy based on morphological traits, it is challenging to resolve these issues based on phylogenetic relationships. There are approximately 20 Nepenthes species in Sabah, seven of which are endemic and can be found in protected areas, such as Kinabalu Park. In this study, we examined Nepenthes species and their distribution patterns in Marai Parai, Kota Belud, Sabah. Elevation levels, humidity, and temperature were recorded to determine and investigate the relationship between the distribution and environmental factors of the Nepenthes species. Nepenthes species in Marai Parai were identified morphologically together with their distribution patterns, and a correlation analysis between elevation, humidity, and temperature was performed. There was no significant relationship between humidity and temperature with elevation; however, there was a significant relationship between humidity and temperature in Marai Parai. The expected findings could be applied as a reference in the future to increase the potential and management strategies for this carnivorous plant and to allow more research into how climate change affects the number of Nepenthes species and their spatial distribution patterns.
Preliminary Survey Of The Macrofungi Of Marai Parai – Gurkha Hut, Kota Belud, Sabah
Macrofungi represent a significant group of mycorrhizal species, many of which possess high nutritional and medicinal value. They are among the most promising mycorrhizal species for development and application. To improve the understanding of the biodiversity of Marai Parai a recent survey conducted by Sabah Parks in Marai Parai, and surrounding regions uncovered 50 fungal specimens. These specimens represent 31 different genera across 24 families, indicating a rich variety of fungal occurrence in the area. The dominant family during this survey was Ganodermataceae that contains 6 species and Amanitaceae, Entolomaceae, Helotiaceae, Helvellaceae, Hericiaceae, Hydnaceae, Hymenochaetaceae, Aceraceae, Omphalotaeceae, Thelephoraceae, Tricholomaceae, and Xylariaceae was least observed with single species of each family. Macrofungi from this survey was categorized into saprophytic (52%), ectomycorrhizal (44%) and parasitic (4%). The results of this survey suggest that Marai Parai that is located on Mount Kinabalu along with its neighbouring regions on Mount Kinabalu, harbours a rich fungal ecosystem. Similarly, this site has a significant interest for early explorers and naturalists. Past expeditions have primarily focused on flora, leading to several important botanical findings. Despite this, the fungal biodiversity of this region has not been thoroughly examined. Continued and expanded research into the macrofungi of this area is encouraged, as it holds the potential for further significant biological discoveries.
Studies On The Butterflies (Lepidoptera), Beetles (Coleoptera) And Plants Of The Marai- Parai Tropical Montane Forest Of Mount Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
This collaborative research study focuses on the fauna and fauna of Marai- Parai, research study focuses on the fauna and flora of Marai-Parai, situated on the northwestern side of Mount Kinabalu in the state of Sabah organized by Sabah Parks from the 11th to the 21st of October 2023. This route also serves as an option for climbers, although only a few parties have attempted it. The first recorded traverse of Marai-Parai through Mount Kinabalu was completed in 1987. Our journey commenced from the base camp at Kampung Kiau Nuluh (880m), passing through Nunuk Camp, which is 2.66km away (1215m), and finally reaching Marai-Parai Camp, which is 2.34km further (1652m).
Wildlife Survey at Marai Parai - Gurkha Hut Taman Kinabalu
The research was conducted over a period of 14 days, from October 7th to October 20th, 2023, focusing on two distinct locations within the forest: the Marai Parai Trail and the Gurhka Hut area. Data collection employed random sampling techniques during treks along designated trails, both during the day and at night. To study the population of small mammals, catch-and-release trapping methods were utilized, alongside the deployment of camera traps, with data being retrieved on December 15th, 2023. This survey recorded a remarkable total of 70 wildlife species, comprising 54 bird species and the remainder being various mammals. Notably, large mammals such as wild boar and Sambar deer were observed, indicating that the area provides ample sustenance for these sizeable species. The presence of potential predators, including the marble cat and sun bear, suggests a robust population of these mammals. The flora of the region plays a crucial role in supporting the documented diversity of 54 bird species, alongside indications of orangutan activity through the discovery of nests. However, the exact population of primates, particularly orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus), remains undetermined currently. The ecological richness of the area underscores a vibrant food chain, reflecting a healthy ecosystem. This highlights the critical need for the preservation and protection of the region's biodiversity, which is essential not only for wildlife conservation but also for fostering potential sustainable tourism initiatives.
Diversity Of Araceae In Marai Parai Transect Line, Kinabalu Park, Sabah
The Araceae is one of the plant families that can be found in the Kinabalu Park area, which has a diverse number of species. This study aims to observe the species diversity of Araceae along the main route from Kinapasuwon (which is located in Kiau) to Marai Parai, and from Marai Parai to Suminungkad. The transect sampling method with a width of 2 metres on both sides of the transect was carried out on the main route, based on five different pit stop; Kiau – Kem Lanting (T1) (850 - 1010 m.a.s.l.), Kem Lanting – Kinotoki (T2) (1010 – 1420 m.a.s.l.), Kinotoki – Marai Parai (T3) (1420 - 1530 m.a.s.l.), Marai Parai – Suminungkad (T4) (1530 - 1800 m.a.s.l.), and Kem Nunuk – Kinotoki (T5) (1010 – 1530 m.a.s.l.). From the observations, 13 genera were identified along the transect: Alocasia, Amorphophallus, Amydrium, Arisaema, Bucephalandra, Colocasia, Homalomena, Nabalu, Ooia, Pothos, Rhaphidophora, Schismatoglottis, and Scindapsus. The Kiau – Kem Lanting transect at an altitude of 850 – 1010 metres above sea level showed the highest species diversity of Araceae. Similarity analysis conducted indicated that the transects have low similarity in Araceae species. Therefore, the main route to Marai Parai via Kiau has a unique and high diversity of Araceae species, which is distinct based on altitude differences.
Checklist Of Wild Orchids Along Marai Parai Trail
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.
A Checklist Of Ferns And Lycophytes From Marai-Parai In Kinabalu Park, Sabah
Mount Kinabalu's unique ecosystem supports a high diversity of rare and endemic fern species, yet the species richness of ferns and lycophytes in the Marai-Parai region remains understudied. This research aimed to investigate and document the species richness of ferns and lycophytes in the Marai-Parai area of Kinabalu Park, Sabah. Using existing identification resources and herbarium collections, a total of 62 species from 16 families were identified, including 55 ferns and seven lycophytes. Oreogrammitis (six spp.) and Hymenophyllum (five spp.) were the most diverse genera, while lycophytes were represented by Lycopodiaceae (five species) and Selaginellaceae (two species). These findings contribute valuable information on fern and lycophyte diversity within the biodiverse Kinabalu Park, aiding conservation efforts by identifying areas of high diversity and potential endemism, and guiding future management strategies.
Survey Of Rare, Threatened And Endangered Plants In Marai Parai, Kinabalu Park
A field survey was carried out at Marai Parai, Kinabalu Park in Sabah during an expedition in October 2023 to investigate Rare, Threatened, and Endangered (RTE) plant species. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the remaining population sizes of seven selected target species: Elaeocarpus inopinatus Coode, Hedyotis protrusa Stapf, Melastoma maraiparaiense K.M.Wong, Saurauia leopoldii K.M.Wong, Symplocos trichomarginalis Noot., Timonius clementis Merr., and Urophyllum lineatum Stapf. Five plots were established in areas where these target species were occuring. Among these target species, Melastoma maraiparaiense exhibited the highest density, while Saurauia leopoldii having the lowest density. It is imperative that conservation efforts prioritize Saurauia leopoldii due to its status as the rarest and most vulnerable target species among these plants.
Begonia Flora Along The Marai Parai To West Gurkha Hut Trail, Mount Kinabalu
A study was conducted on the begonia flora along the Marai Parai to West Gurkha Hut trail from October 6th to 12th, 2023. Twelve transects were established, ranging from 938 to 3986 meters above sea level, encompassing the lowland forest to alpine scrub and dwarf in the alpine rock desert area. The findings indicated that Transect 4 at an altitude of 1656-1929 m in the lower montane to upper montane forest, exhibited the highest begonia count (222 individuals, 6 species), followed by Transect 1 at 1043-1110 m in Lowland Hill Forest (180 individuals, 4 species), Transect 3 1444-1529 m in the lower montane forest (104 individuals, 1 species). In our study, one begonia species was identified and recognized as a novel species named Begonia maraiparaiense Rossiti & Rimi sp. nov. This new species, Begonia maraiparaiense, is exclusive to Mount Kinabalu and has been found solely in the upper montane forest, thriving on both ultramafic and non-ultramafic substrates at Marai-Parai. This study is the first of its kind in the area. The study has identified 11 species of begonias from Marai Parai to West Gurkha Trail Hut.
Preliminary Survey Of The Herpetofauna Of Marai Parai – Gurkha Hut, Kota Belud, Sabah
Marai Parai at Mount Kinabalu is a well-known location that was explored by early naturalists. Many noteworthy discoveries were made in the past, especially involving botanical research. However, detailed studies on the herpetofauna of the area are lacking. A recent expedition by Sabah Parks to Marai Parai and associated areas resulted in the discovery of 21 species of frogs, four species of lizards and five species of snakes. This resulted in a total of 24 frog, four lizard and seven snake species reported from the area when combined with previously published records. The frogs composed of six families: Rhacophoridae (seven species), Bufonidae and Megophryidae (five species each), Dicroglossidae and Ranidae (three species each) and Microhylidae (one species recorded). Lizards composed of three families: Agamidae (one species), Gekkonidae (two species) and Scincidae (one species). Snakes comprised four families: Colubridae (four species), Pareidae, Elapidae and Viperidae (one species each). These findings reveal that Marai Parai and its associated areas are home to a diverse assemblage of amphibian and reptile species. The results of the study also indicate that the diversity of herpetofauna in the area is still underestimated as many new records were made. Research on the herpetofauna of Marai Parai and Mount Kinabalu in general should be supported as it will not only result in more discoveries, but also aid in the conservation of the species.
Mosses Of Marai Parai Trail, Mount Kinabalu
A total of 109 species and three varieties in 62 genera and 26 families of mosses were collected along the Marai Parai Trail, northwestern part of Mount Kinabalu during a three-day survey in October 2023. This represents about 16% and 14% of mosses reported from Sabah and Borneo, respectively. The families with the highest number of species were Sematophyllaceae, followed by Leucobryaceae and Dicranaceae. Among the 112 taxa of mosses, six species are new records for Mount Kinabalu. In addition, several species are rarely collected in Borneo and restricted to Mount Kinabalu, showing the significant importance of the area within the Kinabalu Park.
Assessing The Sustainability Of The Kiau Nuluh - Gurkha Hut Trail, Kinabalu Park, Sabah, Malaysia
Recreation trails are essential for promoting outdoor activities, ecological awareness, and sustainable tourism. This study comprehensively analyses the 14.2km Kiau Nuluh—Gurkha Hut Trail, a proposed trail to be developed northwest of Kinabalu Park. This study aims to assess the trail's characteristics and its sustainability for future use. One hundred forty-two samples were collected at 100m intervals using point sampling methodology, revealing key trail characteristics and sustainability ratings. Findings indicate that the trail predominantly ascending (88%) with sections at higher elevations exhibited narrower tread widths, lesser incisions, steeper trail grades and narrow slope alignment than those at lower elevations. Nearly 90% of the trail is deemed unsustainable, with higher elevations showing escalating unsustainable ratings, highlighting the need for realignment and sustainable trail management strategies. Recommendations include trail realignment according to the acceptable sustainability ratings, realigning the trail to the "side hill" or adhering to the contour lines, and using durable tread materials as one of the erosion control measures. The findings of this study provide baseline information for the future sustainable trail management of the Kiau Nuluh - Gurkha Hut Trail. The insights gained from this research will aid in developing strategies to maintain and improve the trail, ensuring its enjoyment for present and future generations while conserving the natural environment.
Recreation Trail Assessment and Trail Sustainability Ratings
Diversity of Orthoptera From Marai Parai and Nunuk, Kinabalu Park, Sabah, Malaysia
The Orthoptera from the vast island of Borneo is still understudied in certain regions, including parts of the renown Mount Kinabalu in Ranau, Sabah. In October 2023, orthopteran specimens from Marai Parai and Nunuk were collected. In total, 32 species were recorded, representing eight of the 16 monophyletic orthopteran superfamilies. There are at least three species potentially new to science but are unable to be determined in this paper due to lack of material for comparisons. Nevertheless, we believe that the species list provided here is only preliminary.
Identifying Tourism Potential and Community Participation Intention: The Case of Marai Parai Trail, Kota Belud, Sabah
The 5.2 km Marai Parai trail extends from Kampung Kiau Nuluh in Kota Belud, Sabah to the sloping plateau of the Marai Parai ridge of Mount Kinabalu. The Marai Parai plateau is known for its grassy vegetation. At approximately 1,652 m asl, Marai Parai can be reached by a 5–6- hour hike from Kiau Nuluh (at an altitude of 992 m asl). Information about tourism resources, services, and development issues related to the Marai Parai trail and its nearby areas (study area) is lacking. This study, therefore, aims to identify the tourism potential of the Marai Parai trail and determine the local community's interest in participating in tourism activities. A rapid ground assessment survey was conducted to identify tourism resources, challenges, and opportunities. Subsequently, a survey was conducted to gauge the community's willingness to engage in tourism. The survey covered Kiau Nuluh, Kiau Tomodu, and Kiau Taburi villages, all of which are located close to the Marai Parai trail. There are 25 attractions and activities, 21 lodging and camping operators able to accommodate up to 319 guests daily, and three tourism community organizations in the study area. Minitinduk Gorge, also known as the ancient gateway, to Mount Kinabalu, Hugh Low trail, Diba Titiu Waterfall, and Mount Nungkok are among the most iconic tourism resources. The Marai Parai trail and its nearby areas have significant tourism potential. The community highly supports tourism and recognizes the Marai Parai trail's abundant resources but is primarily concerned about its environmental impact.
An Elevational Survey of Honeybee Species In Marai Parai, Mount Kinabalu
The honeybees (Apis spp.) constitute a monophyletic genus with ten recognised species exhibiting notable geographic variations. Sabah hosts five honeybee species, spanning the Micrapis, Megapis, and Apis clades. This study aims to establish the baseline data on the altitudinal distribution of honeybee species in Marai Parai, the northwestern side of Kinabalu Park. Samples were collected over a five-day period using opportunistic netting techniques. Species were identified based on morphological characters using published identification keys. The honeybees were collected on three elevations, including Nunuk Subcamp (1177m a.s.l), Nabalu Sambau (1400m a.s.l.) and Marai Parai Subcamp (1696 m a.s.l.) consisting of three different forest types of lowland dipterocarp forest, oak-chestnut montane forest and ultramafic forest respectively. The majority of the collection was carried out at 1177m a.s.l. (58.73%), followed by 1696m a.s.l. (34.92%) and 1400m a.s.l. (6.35%), reflecting the variability in sampling effort. Four out of five honeybee species known in Sabah were collected: dwarf honeybee A. andreniformis, giant honeybee A. dorsata, and two cavity-nesting honeybees A. cerana and A. nuluensis. Six different foraging sites were recorded in this study, including cut banana trees, herbaceous plants, wet ultramafic rocks, wet cut wood logs, food waste, and cut wood logs. More research should be conducted on honeybee species, diversity, and elevational distribution in Kinabalu Park to gain a deeper understanding of their foraging behaviour and ecological roles.
Survey of Freshwater Fish Fauna In Marai Parai Area, Kinabalu Park, Sabah
Continuous surveys of freshwater fish species along altitudinal gradients in Kinabalu Park are crucial for developing effective conservation strategies, but the park's challenging topography has hindered this effort. The Marai Parai-Gurkha Hut Kota Belud Scientific Expedition 2023 provides an excellent opportunity to explore this understudied plateau on the north-western side of Mount Kinabalu. The present study aims to document fish species occurrences up to the peak of Marai Parai and analyse their relationship with selected environmental variables. Concurrently, fish samples and selected environmental parameters were collected from seven sampling stations, ranging from 619 meters to 1645 meters above sea level (m asl). A total of 11 species belonging to three families and seven genera were recorded in the forest streams of Marai Parai. Gastromyzontidae emerges as the dominant family in this high-altitude zone. The number of fish species is significantly correlated with elevation and water temperature (p-value < 0.05), where it decreased as elevation increased and water temperature dropped. Glaniopsis hanitchi, Protomyzon griswoldi, and Barbodes sealei were found at a higher elevation than previously recorded in Kinabalu Park. Water quality including dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids, conductivity, and temperature were associated with fish species occurrences along the altitudinal gradient of forest streams. It is crucial to conduct regular surveys on freshwater fish in Kinabalu Park as regular and long-term baseline data could be useful for future research and conservation efforts in the area.