Ecobiz.asia – A biodiversity expedition conducted by the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park Authority (TNBBBR) in July 2024 has led to the discovery of a new orchid species endemic to Kalimantan.
The newly identified species, part of the Bulbophyllum genus, was found on Mount Bukit Raya at an elevation of approximately 1,320 meters above sea level.
The species has been formally recognized and scientifically described in an international journal published on May 9, 2025. It has been named Bulbophyllum bukitrayaense in tribute to the site of its discovery.
In a press release issued by the Ministry of Forestry, the ministry praised the expedition team’s success, stating that the discovery demonstrates the vast untapped biodiversity potential in Kalimantan’s tropical rainforests.
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The ministry emphasized the importance of continued exploration to uncover and document more unique species.
Morphologically, Bulbophyllum bukitrayaense closely resembles B. scabrum Vermeulen & Lamb, particularly in the wavy lower margin of the labellum.
However, the new species differs in several aspects, including a longer and narrower labellum with a distinct rocket-like shape, and a papillose-muriculate indumentum covering its ovary. It also bears similarities to B. ovalifolium, but differs in the structure of its sepals and labellum.
The Bulbophyllum genus, consisting of around 2,000 species, is considered one of the most diverse groups within the orchid family.
Borneo, including the Indonesian region of Kalimantan, is known to host nearly 300 Bulbophyllum species. Since the publication of the Bulbophyllum of Borneo monograph, botanical exploration in Kalimantan has intensified, resulting in several newly described taxa.
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“This discovery highlights the ecological richness of Kalimantan’s rainforest ecosystems and underscores the need for sustained conservation and scientific research,” said Krisdianto, Head of the Public Relations and International Cooperation Bureau of the Ministry of Forestry.
The identification of Bulbophyllum bukitrayaense adds to Indonesia’s growing list of endemic plant species and reinforces the importance of preserving its natural heritage. ***