CLIMATE · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Rare Parasitic Flower Blooms in Malaysian Borneo
WHY IT MATTERS
The discovery of the Rhizanthes lowii underscores the need for conservation efforts in Malaysian Borneo's threatened forests, where many unique and endangered species are found.
What happened
In the jungles of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo, a rare and endangered parasitic flowering plant has been discovered. The Rhizanthes lowii has evolved a unique stench that attracts flies, which help pollinate the flower.
This unusual plant blooms for only a few days, adding to its elusive nature. Conservationists are working to protect the remote and threatened forests where the Rhizanthes lowii is found, highlighting the importance of preserving biodiversity in these unique ecosystems.
The plant's limited bloom period and specific habitat requirements make it a challenging species to study and conserve. Efforts are underway to document and protect this rare and fascinating plant, which is just one of the many strange and wonderful species found in the jungles of Borneo.
PRIMARY SOURCES
This flower smells like rotting flesh
Mongabay · Sam Lee · Discovery and factual synthesis only; publisher copyright terms apply