Unveiling Limestone Orchid Hotspots in the Karst Hills of Northern Peninsular Malaysia

To date, documentation of the diversity orchids from limestone hills in northern part Peninsular Malaysia, particularly states Kedah and Perak, is still lacking, with limited literature available. There indeed an urgent need to fill this knowledge gap, so that proper unique karst habitat can be prepared. In study, a series 12 months assessments on five Perak has resulted discovery 56 orchid species 37 genera. From account, are new records within 2 namely Bulbophyllum meson J.J.Verm., Schuit. & de Vogel Luisia brachystachys (Lindl.) Blume. Three endemic Malaysia which Anoectochilus sanguineus P.T.Ong P.O’Byrne, Cheirostylis goldschmidtiana Schltr. Phalaenopsis appendiculata Carr. Findings two keystone species, long-lost endangered snow-white slipper orchid, Paphiopedilum niveum (Rchb.f.) Stein, have catalyzed for more comprehensive study unveil richness endemism habitat. Heat maps using geographical data produced ArcGIS software enabled precise determination areas highest concentration diversity. Results shown Gunung Fakir Terbang houses greatest number followed by Batu Putih Baling. Meanwhile, lower occurrences were recorded Pulai Pong. However, lack attention delayed conservation action would only lead loss, leading decline populations. Orchids as well other plants threatened anthropogenic activity such quarrying forest clearing agriculture. Thus, results will serve baseline future work documenting conserving their Malaysia.