Mangrove boat tour

Mangrove Kalpitiya

The Puttalam lagoon in Sri Lanka is home to various types of mangroves. Some of the most common species include:

• Rhizophora mucronata
• Avicennia marina
• Bruguiera gymnorrhiza
• Ceriops tagal
• Kandelia candel

These mangroves differ in appearance, size, and biology, and each one provides an important ecological role in the local ecosystem. The Puttalam lagoon is a great place to observe and learn about the local flora and fauna.

Mangrove Sri Lanka

Mangrove forests are a unique and vital part of Sri Lanka’s rich ecosystem. These trees are specialized to grow in saltwater environments, where they help to stabilize coastlines, provide habitats for a wide range of marine animals, and support the livelihoods of many local communities. One of the most important regions for mangrove forests in Sri Lanka is around the village of Alankuda in Kalpitiya, where large tracts of mangroves grow along the coast and around the nearby Puttalam lagoon.

Mangroves are an essential part of the coastal ecosystem, providing a buffer against erosion and storm surges. Their extensive root systems help to stabilize the shoreline and prevent erosion by trapping sediments and building up soil. Mangroves also absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. They provide important habitats for a range of marine species, including fish, crabs, and shrimp, and serve as nursery areas for many commercial fish species.

The mangroves around Alankuda and Puttalam lagoon are among the largest in Sri Lanka, covering thousands of hectares. The area is home to several species of mangroves, including the iconic Rhizophora mucronata, which is easily recognized by its distinctive prop roots that help to anchor the tree in the muddy soil. Other common species include Avicennia marina, Ceriops tagal, and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza. These mangroves create a complex ecosystem of interdependent organisms, with numerous species of animals and plants living in and around the mangroves.

One of the most important features of the mangroves around Alankuda and Puttalam lagoon is the large number of water birds that live there. The area is home to many species of birds, including several that are endemic to Sri Lanka. Some of the most common species include the Little Egret, the Great Egret, the Grey Heron, the Black-crowned Night Heron, and the Purple Heron. These birds use the mangroves as nesting and foraging sites, and the dense tangle of roots and foliage provides excellent cover for them to hide from predators.

The mangroves around Alankuda and Puttalam lagoon are also important for the local economy. Many communities in the region rely on fishing and other activities that are supported by the mangrove ecosystem. The mangroves provide important spawning and nursery areas for fish, shrimp, and crab, and are a key source of income for many local fishermen. In addition, the mangroves are an important source of firewood and timber, and are used for traditional medicinal purposes.

However, the mangroves around Alankuda and Puttalam lagoon are facing a number of threats. These include deforestation for development and agriculture, pollution from nearby industries and human settlements, and overfishing. These threats are putting the health of the mangrove ecosystem at risk, as well as the livelihoods of the communities that rely on them. Efforts are underway to protect and conserve the mangroves, through initiatives such as reforestation, conservation education programs, and sustainable fishing practices.

In conclusion, the mangroves around Alankuda and Puttalam lagoon are a vital part of Sri Lanka’s rich ecosystem. They provide important habitats for a range of marine species, stabilize coastlines, and support the livelihoods of many local communities. The area is also home to a rich variety of water birds, adding to the biodiversity of this unique ecosystem. However, the mangroves are facing a number of threats, and it is important to take action to protect and conserve them for future generations.