Assessing the Rafflesia kerrii population status and their threats in Lojing Highlands, Kelantan, Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

Malaysia, recognized as one of the world’s mega-diverse hotspots, is currently facing a decline of many endangered and rare species due to natural and anthropogenic factors. Amid these species, Rafflesia kerrii, the largest iconic parasitic flower, is facing threats from ecological changes, habitat disturbance, and human activity. Despite being threatened, the population of Rafflesia kerrii in Lojing Highlands is still present, but in smaller numbers compared to a decade ago. Therefore, a four-month intensive survey from October 2023 to February 2024 was conducted in the Rafflesia Conservation Park, Lojing Highlands, covering three main sites (Beirus-Dawai; Cebur; Cebur-1Malaysia) to assess the current status (distribution and populations) and threats of the species. A Global Positioning System (GPS) was used to tag the information on location and elevation, whereas the distribution map was generated by using QGIS 3.44.2 version.  A standard criterion status was employed to classify the population of the species into four categories, namely: (i) Active; (ii) Poorly Active; (iii) Dormant; and (iv) Extinct. Results show that R. kerrii populations in the study areas are still promising, with a total of 20 populations and 52 clusters recorded. Of these, 92.31% were classified as Active, 5.77% as Poorly Active, and 1.92% as Dormant, found at elevations ranging from 930 to 1, 054 meters above sea level (asl.). Despite the positive population indicators, the survey revealed the area is facing habitat disturbance and anthropogenic threats, particularly the cutting of Rafflesia host plants, crucial for the parasite’s existence. This factor causes threats to the long-term viability of Rafflesia populations and potentially to extinction in the future. Therefore, an immediate and effective management action for Rafflesia, including habitat protection, community awareness, and ecological monitoring, should be implemented to ensure sustainable protection and regeneration of R. kerrii in this area.