Preliminary Checklist Of Alien Plant Species From Sayap Peak, Mount Kinabalu

Abstract

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.