All three figs shown above can occur together in the same habitat eg on the Kokol Ridge near Kota KInabalu at 800 m and also in the Crocker Range at Kipandi Butterfly Farm which is at a similar altitude. However at these heights F. fulva and F. aurata are at the upper limits of their altitudinal range whilst F. brunneoaurata is at the lower limit of its altitudinal range.
ABOVE: Ficus fulva. Note that the basal veins run almost straight, away from the edge of the leaf and are over 50% the length of the leaf.
BELOW: Ficus fulva stipule. Note pale green, hairless stipule characteristic of Ficus fulva.
ABOVE: Ficus aurata. Note that the basal veins follow the curve of the leaf and are less than 30% the length of the leaf.
BELOW: Ficus aurata. Note that the stipule is green/brown and covered in hairs.
ABOVE: Ficus brunneoaurata: The basal veins are similar to Ficus fulva but the figs are brighter green and much larger and without hairs
BELOW: Ficus brunneoaurata: The stipule is reddish or orange. This is the easiest way to distinguish from F. aurata and F. fulva.
