Borneo
The island of Borneo is a biodiversity hotspot for the genus Nepenthes, hosting over 30 species of these remarkable carnivorous pitcher plants. These species are adapted to a wide range of habitats, from lowland rainforests and peat swamps to montane cloud forests and alpine meadows, particularly around Mount Kinabalu. Notable species include the massive Nepenthes rajah, known for its enormous traps capable of capturing small vertebrates; N. bicalcarata, which has a mutualistic relationship with ants; and N. villosa, adapted to high-altitude environments with cooler temperatures.
Bornean Nepenthes exhibit a stunning diversity in pitcher shape, size, and coloration, reflecting their ecological niches and evolutionary history. Some species, like N. rafflesiana and N. ampullaria, are widespread and versatile, while others, such as N. edwardsiana and N. clipeata, are rare and highly localized.
