Indonesian Researchers Find Two New Species Of Begonia In Kalimantan
JAKARTA - The Ministry of Forestry (Kemenhut) in collaboration with young Indonesian researchers announced the discovery of two new plant species from the Begonia clan named Begonia balikrayensis and Begonia Kalimantana.
According to information received in Jakarta, Monday, the Director General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE) of the Ministry of Transportation, Satyawan Pudyatmoko, said that the findings of the results of the biodiversity expedition in June 2024 facilitated by the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park Center (TNBBBR) were successfully published in the international journal of plant systematics Phytotaxa on June 6, 2025.
"High appreciation for the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya TN Center, for its initiative, dedication and through collaboration with Indonesian researchers in expedition activities have yielded results in jointly uncovering new species," Satyawan Pudyatmoko was quoted as saying by ANTARA, Monday 9 June.
He said Begonia dukyaensis was found on the highlands of Mount Bukit Raya, the highest peak on the island of Kalimantan which is also one of the seven highest peaks in Indonesia or known as 7 Summits Indonesia.
The species has a uniqueness on the surface of its thorny leaves like cat claw, making it very distinctive and different from other Begonia species.
Meanwhile, Begonia Kalimantana was found in a low-lying valley in the TNBBBR area and in the Tumbang Habangoi Village Forest, Central Kalimantan. This plant has a beautiful and striking leaf pattern, becoming its own attraction in the flora landscape of the Kalimantan tropical rainforest.
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He ensured that the Ministry of Transportation continues to encourage responsible scientific exploration in conservation areas, as part of efforts to maintain and uncover Indonesia's biological wealth.
"There are still many species waiting to be found, and collaborations like this are a clear example of the importance of synergy between government, researchers, and society in preserving nature," he said.