The fauna and flora of a semi-deciduous forest in Perlis, Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

A study was conducted to survey the fauna and flora at Mata Ayer Forest Reserve (3176 hectares) and the proposed Bukit Wang Mu Forest Reserve (2768 hectares), Perlis, Peninsular Malaysia. Thirty seven mammal species were recorded, including five primates and five ungulates. The sighting of the Stump-tailed macaque (Macaca arctoides) at Mata Ayer confirms its existence in Peninsular Malaysia. Thirty five species of reptiles were recorded. Eighty eight species of birds, including six species of hornbills were observed. One hundred and forty three non-timber plant species (herb, climber, shrub, sedge, grass, rotan) were identified. The study sites are important as water catchment areas. The establishment of a transfrontier reserve is recommended.