Borneo and Sumatra: Biodiversity Highlights

Aug 9, 2024

Borneo and Sumatra: Tropical Islands of Epic Proportions

Overview

  • Borneo and Sumatra are vast tropical islands known for their biodiversity and unique ecosystems.
  • The islands were once a single land mass 12,000 years ago, before becoming separated due to rising sea levels.

Geography

  • Borneo: 3rd largest island in the world; majority Indonesian, with parts in Malaysia and Brunei.
  • Features extensive rainforests, mud flats, and mangrove habitats.
  • Dominated by ancient rainforests (400,000 km²).

Wildlife Adaptations

  • Prosis Monkeys:

    • Unique to Borneo, evolved large noses for communication.
    • Have specialized stomachs for digesting tough vegetation.
    • Family groups provide social benefits and care for young.
    • Newborns have bright blue faces to attract adult care.
  • Clouded Leopards:

    • Stealthy predators, adept at navigating the canopy.
    • Use family alarm systems to warn of danger.
  • Soft-Shell Turtles:

    • Unique for their lack of hard shells; rely on camouflage and patience to hunt.

Ecosystem Dynamics

  • Mangroves serve as feeding grounds, influenced by tidal changes.
  • Mud Skippers and Crabs: Thrive in muddy coastal areas.
  • Rajah Brooke's Birdwing: Largest butterfly, depends on nutrient-rich waters for development.

Role of Mount Kinabalu

  • Influences the island's ecosystem by providing diverse habitats.
  • Home to over 6,000 plant species.
  • Unique adaptations occur in high-altitude environments, like carnivorous plants.

Rainforest Ecosystem

  • Borneo experiences high rainfall (up to 4m/year), fostering lush vegetation.
  • Pygmy Elephants: Smaller Asian elephants, play a crucial role in seed dispersal.
  • Sun Bears: Climb trees to feed on fruits and insects, unique for their adaptations in the canopy.

Sumatran Wildlife

  • Orangutans:

    • Largest tree-dwelling mammals, share 97% of human genes.
    • Face threats from deforestation and predation.
  • Sumatran Tigers:

    • Smallest tiger species, hunt primarily close to water.
  • Sumatran Rhinos:

    • Critically endangered, roam vast areas for food and mates.

Unique Flora

  • Corpse Flower: Mimics rotting flesh to attract pollinators.
  • Elephant Yam: Heats up to mimic warmth of dying animals for attracting carrion beetles.

Interconnected Ecosystem

  • The survival of species relies on intricate relationships within the ecosystem.
  • Each species plays a role in maintaining the balance of their environment.

Conclusion

  • The ecosystems of Borneo and Sumatra are vital for biodiversity, showcasing unique adaptations and interdependencies among species.
  • The islands' health is crucial for their inhabitants' survival, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts.