The Basin has a spectacular crater-like form with a mountainous rim and includes magnificent rain forests, wild rivers, waterfalls and a cool highland plateau. Although scientific exploration has only recently begun, Maliau's importance in terms of protecting a tremendous range of ecosystems with innumerable species of plants and animals, many of which are rare and endangered elsewhere, has already become evident. The book is an important guide to Maliau's plant and animal life, natural communities and geology.