PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE

Kinabalu Park in Sabah, Malaysia, is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, particularly its diverse orchid (Orchidaceae) flora, many of which grow in ultramafic soils. These soils are known to contain high levels of nickel and magnesium, low levels of calcium, few essential nutrients, and low water retention, hence bringing serious ecological problems to the survival of plants. This paper summarises existing information on the ecology and conservation of orchids in the ultramafic zone of Kinabalu Park, with emphasis on how the species adapt and why conservation efforts are necessary. This work is completely grounded on secondary data and is based on an in-depth evaluation of scientific literature (articles, books, journals, and online herbarium records) to evaluate the orchid diversity and ecological significance in the park. It has been found that there are up to 340 orchid species in the ultramafic sections of the Kinabalu Park, the highest density of which is Marai Parai (136 species), home to the locally endemic Dendrobium maraiparense Wood and Chan, described first at this location. Significant dangers such as excessive collection, illegal commerce, poaching, and climate change demonstrate the necessity of a more powerful conservation and rescue policy. The use of in-situ and ex-situ methods of conservation, increasing community education, and legal enforcement of the control of orchid species are required to protect the orchid species and preserve the ecological health of Kinabalu Park.