New locality and bud growth of the world biggest flower, <i>Rafflesia tuan-mudae,</i> in Naha Jaley, Sarawak, Malaysia

A new Rafflesia population was found in Naha Jaley, Sarawak, 2012. This study aimed to identify this species and investigate its bud growth. First, we described the flower characteristics compared them with keithii R. tuan-mudae, which are candidate for flower. Also, investigated phylogenetic position of within Rafflesiaceae using DNA analysis. To estimate growth curve, observed development from April 2013 November field. Based on morphological comparisons analysis, confirmed newly discovered at Jaley is locality most Eastern side known distribution species. The results indicated that absolute rate greater larger buds. We also estimated it took a year bloom initial stage. mortality one our sites very high, more than 80 % buds dead prior opening. would be vulnerable extinction due their extraordinary anthropogenetic effects. Finally, discussed how populations can conserved both in-situ ex-situ.