Melastoma ansowii

• Main Authors: Tsen, S., Mohd Yusof, Nur Adillah, M.Y., Damit, A., Khoo, E., Matusin, D., Colin Ruzelion Maycock, Nilus, R., Sugau, J., Pereira, J.T.
• Format: Article
• Language: English; English
• Published: International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources 2021
• Subjects: QK Botany; SB Plant culture
• Online Access: https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/27349/1/Melastoma%20ansowii-Abstract.pdf; https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/27349/2/Melastoma%20ansowii.pdf; https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/27349/; https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/162026924/162033784
• Institution: Universiti Malaysia Sabah

Melastoma ansowii is a treelet endemic to Sabah, Malaysia. It is only known from Mount Kinabalu and vicinity. The estimated area of occupancy (AOO) and extent of occurrence (EOO) are 20 km2 and 27.3 km2, respectively. The most plausible threats that could affect the population of this species are climate change and land use change. Montane species are more susceptible to extreme climate, while individuals outside of protected areas are threatened by land use changes. This species can withstand disturbance but not land clearing. If these were to occur, they could drive the species towards Critically Endangered or Extinct in the near future. Hence, it is assessed as Vulnerable. Melastoma ansowii is endemic to Sabah, Malaysia. It is confined to Mount Kinabalu and vicinity.