Head of the garden’s ex-situ plant research and conservation section, Muhammad Ferza Listyannoor, said the exploration focused on the area surrounding Liang Bangkai Cave, which is known for its rich biodiversity.
“This exploration reflects the botanical garden’s role as a conservation institution. Our objective is to search for and preserve plant species native to South Kalimantan that are becoming endangered, so they can be safeguarded for future generations,” he said in Banjarbaru on Thursday.
Ferza noted that the findings were dominated by orchids, begonias, ornamental plants, and aroids, all of which hold conservation value and the potential to enrich Kalimantan’s distinctive plant collections.
“All plants collected during the exploration were brought to Banua Botanical Garden for cultivation and intensive care through an ex-situ conservation system, allowing them to adapt and grow properly before being used for educational or conservation purposes,” he explained.
He emphasized that the adaptation process is essential, as some species require specialized cultivation methods tailored to their specific characteristics in order to thrive in the garden.
Once successfully cultivated, he added, the plants will be used to expand the botanical garden’s collections and distributed to support educational and conservation programs.
Ferza also highlighted the team’s commitment to a reciprocal conservation approach by redistributing seeds of rare species previously collected back into their natural habitats.
He pointed out that meranti trees from the Shorea genus, conserved through earlier explorations, are now growing well in the garden, with some already replanted in Tanah Bumbu District to strengthen conservation efforts in their native environment.
“Meranti trees are becoming increasingly difficult to find. Our explorations are intended to benefit both the botanical garden and local communities,” he stated.
He added that the exploration activities also aim to raise public awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity as part of the region’s natural heritage.
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Translator: Tumpal A, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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