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Flora & Fauna
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As
may be expected in an equatorial area with such variations in altitude
and geology, Mulu has an exceptional level of biological diversity
and endemism. Over 3,500 species of plants have been recorded at the
park including a variety of highly specialised orchids and palms and
unusual species such as the One Leaf Plant (Monophyllae sp.) some
species of which may only be found at several cave entrances within
the park.
There is also a large diversity in fauna species within the park and
although these include a number of mammal and bird species, such as
deer, monkeys and all of Borneo’s hornbills, many visitors to
the park are surprised at the limited sightings they get of animals
and birds. This is largely due to the nature of the animals and the
habitat in which they are found. Many animal species are shy or nocturnal
and are not often seen as they spend the majority of their time high
in the rainforest canopy, frequently out of site from the people below.
The fauna found at Mulu do attract visitors with special interests,
particularly in the areas of entomology, which includes a staggering
number of insect species. For example, 458 species of 78 genera of
ants (Formicidae) alone have been recorded in the park. Mulu also
includes a large variety of insects with camouflage adaptations, most
notably the stick insects (Phasmids) and the park is home to a variety
of beautiful butterfly species, including the famous Rajah Brooke’s
Birdwing (Trogonoptera brookiana).
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