Rafflesia arnoldii, often called the “corpse flower,” is known for producing the largest individual flower in the world. Found in the rainforests of Indonesia, this rare and remarkable plant is distinguished by its enormous, fleshy blooms and distinctive odor, which resembles rotting meat.
The flower’s unique appearance and smell attract pollinators such as carrion beetles and flies, which are drawn to the scent of decaying flesh. The plant is a parasitic species that relies on host vines to provide nutrients for its development, making it an intriguing subject of study in the context of plant evolution and ecology.
Conservation concerns for Rafflesia arnoldii include habitat destruction due to logging and deforestation. Protecting this species involves efforts to conserve its rainforest habitat, promote sustainable land management, and conduct research on its ecology and reproductive biology.