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.