Rafflesia Species Research Articles

Bud development, flower phenology and life history of holoparasitic Rafflesia cantleyi.

Despite being the world's largest single-flower, Rafflesia's biology and life history are still poorly understood due to its cryptic growth strategy on Tetrastigma vines. Previous studies have been mostly short-term, contrary to Rafflesia's long development period before blooming. Bud development and flower phenology of R. cantleyi was studied in a dipterocarp forest in Lata Jarum, Peninsular Malaysia. Seven populations, consisting of 247 buds, were monitored fortnightly for 65months in two discrete studies between 2009 and 2018. The bud size distribution of R. cantleyi is dynamic, progressively changing from small flower buds to larger buds before flowering. Buds < 5.0cm across had the slowest growth and highest mortality rates, while those > 15.0cm across demonstrated accelerated growth. The bud growth profiles of the same site clustered distinctively regardless of sex with successful blooming rate that varied greatly between sites, prompting speculation about their relatedness to the sites' physical attributes. We reported the first female-dominated population in Rafflesia's life history. Rafflesia cantleyi's blooming rate at Lata Jarum is moderate to high, with non-seasonal flowering phenology as evident by the lack of synchronisation and consistency between flowering and local rainfall patterns. Based on the field data of the present study and the published information of other Rafflesia species, R. cantleyi's life cycle was estimated between 4.0 and 5.3years. Our findings further explain Rafflesia's biology and life history and highlight the gap in knowledge of the natural habitats on the endoparasite's growth and fate potentially for future conservation and study.

The endophyte’s endophytes: the microbial partners of the endangered plant parasite Rafflesia speciosa (Rafflesiaceae) reveal clues about its cryptic biology and cues for cultivation

ABSTRACT Rafflesia is an endangered endophytic holoparasitic plant that lives the majority of its life inside the tissues of its sole plant host, Tetrastigma. Rafflesia floral buds emerge to produce the world’s largest single flower. Like other plants, holoparasites harbor a diverse microbiome, the role(s) of which has remained largely unstudied. We characterized the bacterial microbiome of seeds of Rafflesia speciosa and cuttings of its host. We found evidence that R. speciosa seed has similar bacterial profiles to its infected host, which suggests that seeds sequester certain host bacteria, as well as acquire unique bacterial taxa from biotic associates of the fruit. We did not find evidence of mycorrhizal taxa in the microbiome. This is the first study of the microbial endophytes associated with any Rafflesia species and its host, a tripartite holobiont, and provides insights on its cryptic microbial partners. We discuss how this may aid horticultural propagation of Rafflesia.

What explains the high island endemicity of Philippine Rafflesia? A species distribution modeling analysis of three threatened parasitic plant species and their hosts.

Rafflesia are rare holoparasitic plants. In the Philippines, all but one species are found only on single islands. This study aimed to better understand the factors contributing to this distributional pattern. Specifically, we sought to determine whether narrow environmental tolerances of host and/or parasite species might explain their island endemicity. We used Maxent species distribution modeling to identify areas with suitable habitat for R. lagascae, R. lobata, and R. speciosa and their Tetrastigma host species. These analyses were carried out for current climate conditions and two future climate change scenarios. Although species distribution models indicated suitable environmental conditions for the Tetrastigma host species in many parts of the Philippines, considerably fewer areas were inferred to have suitable conditions for the three Rafflesia species. Some of these areas are on islands from which they have not been reported. All three species will face significant threats as a result of climate change. Our results suggest that limited inter-island dispersibility and/or specific environmental requirements are likely responsible for the current pattern of island endemicity of the three Rafflesia species, rather than environmental requirements of their Tetrastigma host species.

Rafflesia in Mount Leuser National Park, Indonesia: An updated distribution, habitat characteristics, and conservation status

New localities and updated distribution of two endemic Rafflesia R.Br. (Rafflesiaceae) species from Mount Leuser National Park, Sumatra namely Rafflesia lawangensis Mat-Salleh, Mahyuni & Susatya and Rafflesia micropylora Meijer are reported. Rafflesia lawangensis is formerly known only from its type locality in Tualang Gepang, Bukit Lawang area (North Sumatra province), while R. micropylora is found in several localities including Sungai Jernih, Lokop, Ketambe, Lawe Mamas, and Kuala Kompas (Aceh province). Here, we report a new locality of R. lawangensis in Tangkahan (North Sumatra province) about 10 km from its type locality, and two new localities of R. micropylora in Batu Katak and in Cinta Raja (North Sumatra province). We also update the conservation status of both Rafflesia species and assess R. lawangensis as Critically Endangered and R. micropylora as Endangered. In this study, a complete distribution map of both species, habitat characteristics, and an identification key are also provided to be used for conservation managers.

How many species of Rafflesia exist in Java, Indonesia and what are the implications for conservation?

Societal Impact StatementClarifying species status for closely related taxa with similar and overlapping morphology is important for planning conservation efforts. Conservation of Rafflesia goes beyond merely saving species from extinction. It has far‐reaching societal impacts that touch on scientific discovery, cultural heritage, economic development, education, and more. Rafflesia interests many nature lovers, and so protected areas that preserve Rafflesia can become tourism hotspots, contributing to local economies and livelihoods. By conserving biodiversity, we acknowledge and value the interdependence of all living organisms, promoting a holistic understanding of nature. Biodiversity conservation is an investment in the health and well‐being of both ecosystems and human societies.Summary Species ambiguity could hinder conservation activities. Rafflesia is an endangered, holoparasitic, and endophytic plant genus that grows exclusively on Tetrastigma (Vitaceae) host plants. Overlapping morphological characters make their species delimitation difficult. Therefore, the number of Rafflesia species has been a major debate until now. On the island of Java, Indonesia, two or three species have been variously recognized. Here, we aim to illuminate the species status using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) marker obtained via a multiplexed ISSR genotyping by sequencing (MIG‐seq) approach. Clustering analysis with STRUCTURE indicates three different groups. Furthermore, the delimitation of the Javanese Rafflesia into three species is the favored model based on SNAPPER analysis. Phylogenetic analysis using Randomized Axelerated Maximum Likelihood (RAxML) also supports the distinction of the three groups. Although a SplitsTree4 analysis confirms the abovementioned results, it also highlights that Rafflesia patma shows broader gene flow compared to the other two species R. rochusenii and R. zollingeriana. We conclude that there are likely three species of Rafflesia on Java. Our study highlights the ability of using SNPs markers, in this case derived from a MIG‐seq approach, in approaching species uncertainty. The importance of clarifying the Rafflesia species status on Java Island for conservation planning is also discussed.

Most of the world's largest flowers (genus Rafflesia) are now on the brink of extinction

Societal Impact StatementRafflesia is the genus that contains the world's largest flowers. Despite their global appeal, most of the 42 known species are now at risk of extinction. Urgent action is needed to protect these remarkable flowers. A combined approach to conservation is recommended, including a greater level of habitat protection and support for local community action groups. Rafflesia is a suitable new icon for conservation in the Asian tropics.SummaryThe genus Rafflesia, which includes the world's largest flowers, has aroused curiosity among scientists for centuries and features prominently in local culture across Southeast Asia. The plant has long been used in ethnobotanical medicine and, more recently, as a source of revenue from ecotourism. But despite its acclaim, Rafflesia remains poorly understood in many respects. Taxonomy is disputed, new species are described each year, and the plant has proven recalcitrant to cultivation. This has hindered conservation, and most of the 42 known species are now severely threatened, yet only one is listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). We estimate that 60% of Rafflesia species face a severe risk of extinction (equivalent to Critically Endangered [CR]). Moreover, we predict that at least 67% of known habitats fall outside protected areas, exacerbating their vulnerability. Alarmingly, recent observations suggest taxa are still being eradicated before they are even known to science. We present recent scientific discoveries and probable extinctions and highlight case studies of conservation success, with a focus on the role of local people. We propose a multi‐pronged conservation approach combining strengthened taxonomy, ex situ propagation, ecotourism, and an extension of protected areas. We suggest action devolved to local communities and awareness campaigns linked to social media networks will be crucial outside of protected jurisdictions. Finally, we propose to establish Rafflesia as a new icon for plant conservation in the Asian tropics. A combined approach might just save some of the world's most remarkable flowers, most of which are now on the brink of being lost.

Population and autecology of the endangered Rafflesia meijeri in Batang Gadis National Park, Indonesia

Abstract. Rambey R, Saputra N, Rambe IF, Nopandry B, Zunaidi S, Christy EL, Setiawan T, Afifuddin Y, Hartanto A. 2023. Population and autecology of the endangered Rafflesia meijeri in Batang Gadis National Park, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 1845-1852. Indonesia is renowned for its tropical forests, which harbor high biodiversity. One of the notable flora found in the Indonesian forest is the holoparasitic plant Rafflesia, which attaches to its host, Tetrastigma spp. Among the 30 species of Rafflesia, 11 species have geographical distribution in Indonesia, specifically in Sumatra, Java, and Kalimantan. Rafflesia is listed as Endangered by the IUCN Red List, highlighting the conservation importance of this plant group. The objective of this study was to determine the number of individuals, ecological conditions, and structure of plant species composition in the habitat of Rafflesia meijeri Wiriad. &amp; Sari in two localities (i.e. Sopotinjak and Pagar Gunung) in Batang Gadis National Park. Population and autecology data of R. meijeri were collected using the nested plot method and the vegetation community was analyzed in terms of the Importance Value Index (IVI), biodiversity and richness indices. The results of the study indicated that in Sopotinjak there was one individual of R. meijeri in the bract phase, two individuals in the ruptured copule phase, and 13 individuals in the round copule phase. In Pagar Gunung, there were 19 individuals in the late blooming phase, seven individuals were in the bract phase, three individuals were in the copule phase, and two individuals were in the ruptured copule phase. Species with the highest IVI in the vegetation community around the habitat of R. meijeri from seedling, sapling, pole to tree level in Pagar Gunung were Litsea firma (Blume) Hook.fil., Eugenia pyriformis Cambess., Cinnamomum burmanni (Nees &amp; T.Nees) Blume, and Castanopsis javanica (Blume) A.DC., respectively. Species that were significantly associated with R. meijeri in Sopotinjak were Kyllinga brevifolia, Melastoma malabathricum L., Calamus paspalanthus Becc, Calamus rotang L., and Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth. The discovery of nine specimens of the host plant Tetrastigma papillosum (Blume) Planch. in Pagar Gunung and Sopotinjak indicates the importance conservation efforts aimed at conserving R. meijeri, as well as the flora and habitats that are intricately linked to it.

Dissecting the Biology of Rafflesia Species: Current Progress and Future Directions Made Possible with High-Throughput Sequencing Data.

The angiosperm Rafflesia exhibits a unique biology, including a growth strategy that involves endophytic parasitism of a specific host, with only the gigantic flower externally visible. The Rafflesia possesses many unique evolutionary, developmental and morphological features that are rooted in yet-to-be-explained physiological processes. Although studies on the molecular biology of Rafflesia are limited by sampling difficulties due to its rarity in the wild and the short life span of its flower, current advances in high-throughput sequencing technology have allowed for the genome- and transcriptome-level dissection of the molecular mechanisms behind the unique characteristics of this parasitic plant. In this review, we summarize major findings on the cryptic biology of Rafflesia and provide insights into future research directions. The wealth of data obtained can improve our understanding of Rafflesia species and contribute toward the conservation strategy of this endangered plant.

Conservation genetics of three Rafflesia species in Java Island, Indonesia using SNP markers obtained from MIG-seq

Conservation genetics of three Rafflesia species in Java Island, Indonesia using SNP markers obtained from MIG-seq

Assessing potential habitat suitability of parasitic plant: A case study of Rafflesia arnoldii and its host plants

Rafflesia are obligate endo-holoparasitic plants with the genus Tetrastigma playing an important role as their host plants. Rafflesia arnoldii is one of Indonesian endemic plants that grows in Sumatra island. This island is also known to have eleven species of Tetrastigma . Three of them are known as host plants of R. arnoldii , namely Tetrastigma curtisii, T. pedunculare and T. leucostaphylum . Unfortunately, it is not possible to survey the entire native distribution range of R. arnoldii and its host plants due to practical constraints. Species Distribution Modeling using Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) is considered to be an alternative way to understand the potential regions that are suitable for a species. Predicting habitat suitability of a parasitic plant through predicting its host plant distribution may be a useful approach. The model prediction from MaxEnt for all host species has an AUC value more than 0.70, indicating the model adequately classified the occurrence records of R. arnoldii and its host plants. Suitable habitats for R. arnoldii were predicted to occur along the Bukit Barisan Mountain range from Lampung to Aceh, mostly in Lampung, Bengkulu, West Sumatra and Aceh. However, the suitable habitats of R. arnoldii estimated from host plants were predicted to occur predominately in Lampung, Bengkulu, West Sumatra, North Sumatra and Aceh. The important environmental variables affecting the occurrence of R. arnoldii and its host plants are mean temperature, slope, elevation, soil organic carbon and soil type. Rafflesia species can be found in various soil types, but mostly in Humic Andosols, Humic Acrisols, Orthic Acrosols, Dystric Fluvisols, Dystric Cambisols and Eutric Fluvisols based on the actual data points and predicted habitats. The suitable habitats of R. arnoldii based on its host plants were predicted to be mostly outside conservation areas, but suitable habitats were predicted inside approximately 46 conservation areas. The findings of this study may be used by the Government of Republic Indonesia, c.q. Ministry of Environment and Foresty for establishing protected areas and conservation-based management improvement and could also help inform the R. arnoldii listing status in IUCN red list category in the future.

Rafflesia tunku-azizahiae(Rafflesiaceae), a New Species from Pahang, Malaysia

A new species of Rafflesia (Rafflesiaceae) from Mt. Benom Forest Reserve, Ulu Dong, Raub, Pahang, Rafflesia tunku-azizahiae Adam, Aizat-Juhari &amp; Wan is described and illustrated. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis showed that R. tunku-azizahiae and R. tuanku-halimii are closely related morphologically, characterized by perigone lobes covered by rows of very closely spaced coalesced white warts, and windows wholly covered by very closely rings of coalesced white warts. Score plot and bi-plot showed that R. tunku-azizahiae differs from R. tuanku-halimii by larger flower diameter, broader diaphragm and disc diameter, larger aperture diameter and longer ramenta.

Living with a giant, flowering parasite: metabolic differences between Tetrastigma loheri Gagnep. (Vitaceae) shoots uninfected and infected with Rafflesia (Rafflesiaceae) and potential applications for propagation

Main conclusionMetabolites in Rafflesia-infected and non-infected Tetrastigma were compared which may have applications in Rafflesia propagation. Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids, here reported for the first time in Vitaceae, were abundant in non-infected shoots and may be a form of defense. In Rafflesia-infected shoots, oxylipins, which mediate immune response, were elevated.Endemic to the forests of Southeast Asia, Rafflesia (Rafflesiaceae) is a genus of holoparasitic plants producing the largest flowers in the world, yet completely dependent on its host, the tropical grape vine, Tetrastigma. Rafflesia species are threatened with extinction, making them an iconic symbol of plant conservation. Thus far, propagation has proved challenging, greatly decreasing efficacy of conservation efforts. This study compared the metabolites in the shoots of Rafflesia-infected and non-infected Tetrastigma loheri to examine how Rafflesia infection affects host metabolomics and elucidate the Rafflesia infection process. Results from LC–MS-based untargeted metabolomics analysis showed benzylisoquinoline alkaloids were naturally more abundant in non-infected shoots and are here reported for the first time in the genus Tetrastigma, and in the grape family, Vitaceae. These metabolites have been implicated in plant defense mechanisms and may prevent a Rafflesia infection. In Rafflesia-infected shoots, oxygenated fatty acids, or oxylipins, and a flavonoid, previously shown involved in plant immune response, were significantly elevated. This study provides a preliminary assessment of metabolites that differ between Rafflesia-infected and non-infected Tetrastigma hosts and may have applications in Rafflesia propagation to meet conservation goals.

Host-Parasitic Relationships between Tetrastigma rafflesiae and Rafflesia azlanii and Rafflesia cantleyi in Belum-Temenggor Forest Complex, Perak, Malaysia

Rafflesia is a holoparasitic plant that depends solely on its host for its nutrients, given that during the early stage of its life, this parasite lives inside the host vine. The lack of host specificity and preference information for Rafflesia can largely be attributed to the absence of a comprehensive taxonomic study in Tetrastigma . Without the host, the Rafflesia will not be able to survive. Therefore, this research was conducted to study the host-parasitic relationships between the two species using anatomical dissection and micrographic images using a light microscope (LM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The anatomical study consisted of three stages of Rafflesia buds; the emergence of cupule stage, cupule-bract transition stage, and bract stage ­­attached with the host. All samples underwent sliding techniques and were observed using LM and SEM. Based on the results, the anatomical characteristics of the host-parasite for the cupule stage evidenced penetration of the parasite-affected tissues inside the vascular bundles with the visibility of the flower bud. However, during other stages, the penetration of parasite-affected tissues to the vascular bundles was disrupted and cannot be seen using this sliding technique. The endoparasite of Rafflesia invades the host only towards the phloem region in the early stage. In contrast, in late buds for both species, the Rafflesia tissue invaded both the host xylem (proximal region) and phloem. The parasite intrusion movement for both Rafflesia species showed a pointed tissue towards the host as this was believed to minimise the damage of the host plant. A new method using the paraffin wax technique might improve the sectioning and provide a more precise relationship dissection. The information from this study is expected to provide baseline information and an understanding of the host-parasitic relationship between the species. In addition, further anatomical studies with the different stages of buds will offer a better understanding of their relationship with the host.

FLORISTIC COMMUNITY COMPOSITION IN RAFFLESIA’S HABITAT AT KINABALU PARK, SABAH

In the vicinity of Kinabalu Park, Sabah, a study was conducted to determine the plant community and its composition in the habitat of Rafflesia sp. and its host, Tetrastigma sp. A total of 5 circular-shaped plots each with a fixed radius of 20 meters, were located around Kinabalu Park, namely in Losou Podi, Losou Minunsud, Sayap Substation, Langanan and Gansurai. The Rafflesia species detected in Kinabalu Park during the present study were Rafflesia pricei and R. keithii. Overall, 19 Rafflesia individuals were detected, which comprised of 3 flowers and 16 buds. A total of 20 scars from former dead flowers and buds were obtained on the host, where they possessed an average diameter of 2.2-4.8 cm from the five plots. There were 778 individuals recorded for plant community, belonging to 111 genera, 53 families and 250 species. The total tree density was 1238 individuals/ha, where the family Lauraceae (11.05%) had the highest individuals followed by Annonaceae (8.61%). Although the species Baccaurea lanceolata were found in all study plots, the species Xantophyllum macrophyllum has the most individuals detected (3.60%) in the plant community habitats. The value of the Shannon-Wiener Index was H’=3.23 and the Evenness Index is low, E=0.10. The percentage of family similarity between plots was high (SBC=70.19–48.23%), but the percentage of species similarity between plots was very low (SJ=4.31–1.54%). This study shows that both the species of Xanthophyllum macrophyllum and Baccaurea lanceolata have a relationship with the habitat ofRafflesia in Kinabalu Park, as both species were located nearest to the Rafflesia’s host. Moreover, these two species were seen to be well associated with Tetrastigma since the Tetrastigma was observed to climb several trees of these species in the plot.

Managing and protecting of endangered Rafflesia species in Kelantan, Peninsular Malaysia

Rafflesia is the most magnificent and largest flower in the world. In Southeast Asia, the species becoming endangered due to anthropogenic activities such as logging, conversion of forest into large-scale agricultural areas, urbanization and unsustainable ecotourism. This paper has specifically highlighted the efforts that have been taken by the Kelantan State Forestry Department (KFD) in ensuring the sustainability and survival of this gigantic flower in its natural habitat. A survey by Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) shows that many populations of Rafflesia were situated in the forest reserves under the administration of KFD, such as in Lojing, Mt. Chamah, Mt. Basor and Mt. Stong. A lot of initiatives have been implemented by KFD such as organising scientific expeditions and the establishment of the High Conservation Value Forest (HCVF). In July 2011, the State Government of Kelantan declared an area of 404 ha (1,000 acres) bordering Sg. Berok Forest Reserve in Lojing Highlands as the Rafflesia Preservation Area. This recognition by the state government resulted from collaboration efforts of UMK, KFD and South Kelantan Development Authority (KESEDAR). To date, KFD has established a total of two HCVFs in Kelantan and a new area of 50 ha in Compartment 1, Lojing Forest Reserve has also been dedicated for the protection of Rafflesia. This paper was also briefly discussed several issues and challenges in conserving Rafflesia in Kelantan such as the expansion of large-scale agricultural plantation, participation of local community, tourism and income generation, international and internal funds for conservation works, and provide an integrated tourism and management plans. Hopefully, this effort will lead to the establishment of a centre of excellence in nature conservation, ecotourism and scientific research of Rafflesia in Kelantan.

Tetrastigma leucostaphylum (Dennst.) Alston ex Mabb. Partial Wedge Sampling, a New, Less-invasive Solution for Stem-borne versus Root-borne Rafflesia Identification

Tetrastigma (Vitaceae) are a genus of tropical lianas that are hosts for parasitic plants in the family Rafflesiaceae. Since the stem of Tetrastigma is creeping and often devoid of leaves, it is often mistakenly visually identified as a root. Rafflesia flowers at the ground level (i.e. terrestrial flowers) have been documented to grow on Tetrastigma roots, but it is unclear whether those that arise aerially emerge from host root or stem organs. In this study, we present a new, lessdestructive means of sampling Tetrastigma leucostaphylum, which is a host of many Rafflesia species. Histological observation of two 250 cm above-ground aerial samples confirmed that both were stems, as shown by distinct anatomical features (compactly arranged vascular bundles with simple phloem bundles) in contrast to roots, which had loosely arranged vascular bundles with ramified phloem bundles. Clearer identification of Tetrastigma vine infected with aerial Rafflesia is needed to confirm whether the parasitic flower grows on a stem or on an erect aerial root to better understand the biology of this enigmatic Rafflesia species that have evaded cultivation and ex situ conservation efforts. This new sampling method may be a useful way to identify the Tetrastigma vine in the future due to its less invasive nature compared to severing the whole vine.

Microsatellite analysis of Rafflesia cantleyi from the Rafflesia Conservation and Interpretive Centre, Bersia Timur and Gerik Forest Reserve, Perak, Malaysia

Located at Bersia Timur, the Rafflesia Conservation and Interpretive Centre (RCIC) was initiated by the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) and FELDA to boost research and conservation efforts of the iconic Rafflesia species in the state of Perak. It also plays a role in supporting the economy of local communities by promoting local eco-tourism, providing trainings to local tour-guides and involving them in conserving the Rafflesia population. As part of the R & D and conservation effort, genetic diversity assessment of Rafflesia cantleyi from RCIC and Gerik Forest Reserve (FR) was carried out. Bract samples from a total of eight and 35 R. cantleyi individuals of different flowering / anthesis stages were collected from RCIC and Gerik FR, respectively. We used nine polymorphic microsatellite markers for genotyping. Despite the small sample size (∼75% lesser compared with Gerik FR), the total number of alleles observed in RCIC is > 50% than that of Gerik FR, i.e., 33 compared to 57. The genetic diversity measure in terms of observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosities from both sites are comparable (RCIC: Ho = 0.5298, He = 0.5347; Gerik FR: Ho = 0.5145, He = 0.5868). Our findings suggest that the R. cantleyi population in Gerik FR is a suitable source for future translocation activities.

Ecology of Rafflesia arnoldii (Rafflesiaceae) in Pandam Gadang West Sumatra

Pandam Gadang has tropical forests which become the habitat of Rafflesia (Rafflesia arnoldii) which grows as a parasite of Tetrastigma (Vitaceae). Study on R. arnoldii is needed since its population continuously decrease as a result of habitat destruction of its host. The aim of the study was to determine habitat conditions, vegetation structure, and characteristic of the host species of Rafflesia; to identify environmental factors, and determine the Rafflesia habitat suitability in Pandam Gadang Koto Tinggi Village, West Sumatra. Analysis of vegetation in the habitat where Rafflesia grows using a circular plot. The number of individuals Rafflesia found was recorded and completed with observations of its morphology. Micro-climate measurements were carried out together with data collection in the field. Flower morphological analysis was descriptively presented. Environmental parameters were-processed with Canoco software 4.56 using Canonical Correspondence Analysis. Habitat suitability was analyzed using Maximum Entropy. The 17 Rafflesia individuals found on Pandam Gadang were R. arnoldii, known as "Cendawan Biriang", living parasitically on Tetrastigma leucostaphylum. The results of analysis of vegetation in the Rafflesia habitat showed that there were 250 individual plants consisting of 42 species and 21 genera. Seedlings most dominant was Lauraceae, belt were dominated by Moraceae, Meliaceae, and Euphorbiaceae. Trees were dominated by Euphorbiaceae, Moraceae, and Meliaceae. Existence and survival of R. arnoldii depended on soil pH 7-7.8, environmental humidity 83-91.8 % and distance from the nearest river 3-27.8 m.

Genetic Variation Analysis of EMS-Induced Chili Pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) Mutants Using SSR Markers

Pandam Gadang has tropical forests which become the habitat of Rafflesia ( Rafflesia arnoldii ) which grows as a parasite of Tetrastigma (Vitaceae). Study on R. arnoldii is needed since its population continuously decrease as a result of habitat destruction of its host. The aim of the study was to determine habitat conditions, vegetation structure, and characteristic of the host species of Rafflesia ; to identify environmental factors, and determine the Rafflesia habitat suitability in Pandam Gadang Koto Tinggi Village, West Sumatra. Analysis of vegetation in the habitat where Rafflesia grows using a circular plot. The number of individuals Rafflesia found was recorded and completed with observations of its morphology. Micro-climate measurements were carried out together with data collection in the field. Flower morphological analysis was descriptively presented. Environmental parameters were-processed with Canoco software 4.56 using Canonical Correspondence Analysis. Habitat suitability was analyzed using Maximum Entropy. The 17 Rafflesia individuals found on Pandam Gadang were R. arnoldii , known as Cendawan Biriang, living parasitically on Tetrastigma leucostaphylum . The results of analysis of vegetation in the Rafflesia habitat showed that there were 250 individual plants consisting of 42 species and 21 genera. Seedlings most dominant was Lauraceae, belt were dominated by Moraceae, Meliaceae, and Euphorbiaceae. Trees were dominated by Euphorbiaceae, Moraceae, and Meliaceae. Existence and survival of R. arnoldii depended on soil pH 7-7.8, environmental humidity 83-91.8 % and distance from the nearest river 3-27.8 m.

A phylogenetic and biogeographic study of Rafflesia (Rafflesiaceae) in the Philippines: Limited dispersal and high island endemism

Rafflesia (Rafflesiaceae) is a small endo-holoparasitic Asian plant genus known for its exceptionally large flowers, rare species, and high island endemism. In this study, phylogenetic (parsimony and Bayesian inference) and biogeographic (BioGeoBEARS) analyses of DNA sequence data (atp6 and matR genes, and nad1 B-C intron from the mitochondrial genome, and the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer) were used to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships among 12 of the 13 known Philippine Rafflesia species and to determine the timing and pathways of their diversification. The results of these analyses confirm those of previous Rafflesia studies (which were largely focused on non-Philippine species) in finding pronounced biogeographic patterns. They suggest that dispersal between islands has been relatively uncommon, and indicate that the high island endemism of Rafflesia is a result of poor inter-island dispersal abilities. The results further suggest that its ancestral range might have been in Borneo, and that its lineages and species evolved earlier and more gradually than previously assumed.