Even the devastation in Sri Lanka caused by the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004 has been The Status of the Coral Reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar-Coding. 2. 8). There is no shortage of spectacular diving options, with about 1,600km of coastline. reptiles, 435 species of birds May 11, 2024 · Arulananthan et al. The staghorn coral (Acropora spp. Oceans 2021, 2, 509–529”. Grab your snorkel and explore the coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. Apr 1, 2022 · shallow coas tal seas (depth 1 – 10 0 m) and scatte red coral reef s. S. Telephone and Fax 94·1·500207. May 11, 2024 · Sri Lanka, an island nation located off the southeast coast of the Indian sub-continent, has an unappreciated diversity of corals and other reef organisms. The online package deals for this site include sunset cruises, whale watching, and dolphin watching. Sep 26, 2017 · The 4 th International Conference on Fisheries and Aquaculture -2017 D1 [22] IMPACTS OF TOURISM ON CORAL REEFS AT CASUARINA BEACH OF KARAINAGAR ISLAND IN JAFFNA PENINSULA, SRI LANKA Dec 30, 2018 · Sixty‐five coral genera (171 species) and 35 species of butterflyfish are recorded from Sri Lankan reefs. Laws and Institutions Governing Coral Reef Management In Sri Lanka there are numerous government departments, agencies and authorities functioning under different ministries that control activities within coastal areas. Poritesdesilveri is an endemic coral species of Sri Lanka. This is the second species of coralsnake known from the island country Mirissa: Located on the southern coast, Mirissa is known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. No. Oceans . Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar ‐ Coding Ashani Arulananthan 1, *, Venura Herath 2 , Sivashanthini Kuganathan 3 , Anura Upasanta 4 May 29, 2023 · Sixty‐five coral genera (171 species) and 35 species of butterflyfish are recorded from Sri Lankan reefs. Lieske and Myers (1994) estimate that more than 900 species of reef fish may be found in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. The percent algae cover ranged from 6. The east coast of Sri Lanka is rich in marine biodiversity. Here are some of the best snorkelling spots in the region: 1. Jayamanne Environmental Science, Biology Aug 13, 2018 · Coral species explained more of the variability in fish species richness (20. In 2014 the U. Most coral species supported distinctive fish communities, with In Sri Lanka we have seven species of kingfishers. The Bar Reef, located 2 km off the coast of Kalpitiya, is Sri Lanka’s largest coral reef and largest protected marine area. There are types many types of coral extraction in Sri Lanka including reef breaking, coral rubble from the beach, and back beach mining. The surface is usually smooth. melanurus in coloration, possessing a relatively unpigmented head and red pigment lateral to the blue under-tail color. [1] report the discovery of 36 coral species new to Sri Lanka, confirmed by DNA barcoding. 032- 4364653 +94 773045444. Oceans 2021, 2 , 509–529. In total, 272 reef fish species and 101 coral species were found in all of the study sites. May 4, 2023 · benthic communities at each reef sample site in Sr i Lanka. The best time to visit for scuba diving is during the dry season from November to April on the west coast and May to October on the east coast. However, anthropogenic activities have severely damaged these valuable resources over the years. Oceans , 2 (3), 509-529. Fringing coral reefs along the east coast are known to contain more than 100 species of hard corals and over 200 species of reef fish. W. C. You’ll be amazed by the exquisite beauty that lurks under the waves, from tiny fan corals to brain corals. Colour: Usually cream or pale brown but may be bright blue, purple or green in shallow water. Reefs are mostly of fringing type in nearshore waters or patch reefs on rocky substratum varying distances from the shore on the continental shelf. In particular, knowledge of the status of coral reefs in its northern region has been limited Jul 26, 2021 · The Status of the Coral Reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar-Coding. We describe a new species of coralsnake, Calliophis haematoetron, from central Sri Lanka. Rekawa Beach | Embracing Nature's Aquatic Symphony. The clear water, tremendous variety of tropical fish, and a depth up to 3 meters makes it the best location for snorkelling in Kaplitiya. Mar 15, 2023 · Seagrasses are marine flowing plants and Sri Lanka is blessed with 14 species of seagrasses. 1, Gower Street, Colombo 5, Sri Lanka. Reef fish surveys conducted at several locations indicate that a single location may support between 300 to 500 species. Feb 9, 2024 · The present study aimed to understand the i). 3390/oceans2030029 See full list on nexttravelsrilanka. Percent live coral cover around Sri Lanka ranged from 16. * Overview 2. A. Sep 8, 2023 · Coral Reefs in Sri Lanka. Reef condition is generally poor and declining in nearshore waters. IUCN™s seven regional thematic programmes, known collectively as the Ecosystems and Livelihoods Group (ELG), are based in two clusters: one in Colombo, Sri Lanka (environmental economics, marine and coastal, species conservation) and one in The coral reefs surrounding Pigeon Island are considered some of the best-preserved in Sri Lanka. 7 ± 170. Specific regions, like the Gulf of Mannar and Tangalle, boast over 200 coral species and 900 fish species. Nov 24, 2019 · A comprehensive survey of reef fish inhabiting coastal and offshore reefs is lacking. 6 Diving in Sri Lanka - 13 Be ₹ 9,750 onwards View Packages. These pristine waters boast some of the Dec 16, 2016 · It is a marine national park in Sri Lanka located in the general area of the city of Trincomalee and contains some of the best remaining coral reefs of Sri Lanka. Jul 30, 2022 · Even though, the threat of marine microplastic pollution has become a global concern, very little attention has been paid to microplastic pollution in coral reef ecosystems in Sri Lanka. The national park is home to over 60 different species of coral, 170 species of reef fish and also offers you glimpses of creatures such as stingrays, 5 species of sea turtles and a variety of crustaceans. Thilakarathne N. 5% at Paraviwella reef (PV) to 69. Jun 23, 2023 · The Bar Reef, one of the largest in Sri Lanka has a wide variety of vibrant coral reefs and fishes in the region. thereby offering protection to coral reefs and helps to The Status of the Coral Reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar-Coding. Reply to Hendawitharana et al. monitor to characterize the intertidal zone and estimate Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Viet Nam. A regional warning of a possible coral bleaching has been issued. com. 8 ± 7. Harishchandra Sri Lanka, an island nation located off the southeast coast of the Indian sub-continent, has an unappreciated diversity of corals and other reef organisms. Line Intercept Transect (LIT A summary of all human and natural factors causing impacts on coral reefs in Sri Lanka is shown in Table 3. It is known to have some of the best dive spots in all of Asia, where divers have seen a large variety of coral and fish. Sep 1, 2023 · This study investigated the abundance, distribution, and characteristics of microplastics from ten coral reef ecosystems in Sri Lanka, a non-quantified threat for some context. Explore the underwater wonders of the best snorkelling spots in Sri Lanka. 9% at Weligama reef (WEL). Jan 1, 1995 · Sri Lanka is a tropical island country with a rich marine biodiversity (which includes 1713 species of invertebrates and 2142 species of vertebrates) and is a Global hotspot [24,25,27,51,52, 53 Mar 7, 2023 · The status of the coral reefs of the Jaffna peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 coral species to Sri Lanka confirmed by DNA bar-coding. The Oct 1, 2021 · The species diversity of Sri Lanka shows that we have 4000 species of flowering. #5. The diversity index increased significantly with increasing coral cover on the Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed northern coast but showed the opposite trend on the island sites. Herath Sivashanthini Kuganathan Anura Upasanta A. However, due to the lack of many detailed biodiversity assessments these numbers are likely to be heavily underestimated. 4% at Small Island (SI) reef to 14. Kalpitiya. Bar Reef. The park extends for over 4km and acts a natural barrier to coastal erosion. 05/1994Coastal Resources Managelnent Project, Sri LankaCRMP Sri Lanka is managed by the Coastal Resources Center ofthe University ofRhode Island and provides the Coastal Resources Element of the. doi: 10. With over 180 hard coral reef species, these ecosystems support coastal fisheries, protect against coastal erosion, and sustain marine life. It is estimated that about 1000 species of fish inhabit Sri Lanka’s coral reefs (FD, 1999). In particular, knowledge of the status of coral reefs in its northern region has been limited According to recent Sea Surface Temperature data, it is now around 32 C where the normal average temperature should be around 28 C. Visit between 7:00 am to 5:30 pm. 9–53. Sep 30, 2008 · Offshore barrier reefs of good condition occur at two locations along the western coast, as well as on two submerged ridges off the southeast coast (Great and Little Bases). Oceans 2021, 2, 509 . Reef fish perform multiple ecological roles that are important for maintaining the structure and function of coral reefs. This is the s econd species of coralsnake known from the island c ountry , after Callioph is melanurus . Get Package Offers. Microplastics were isolated and quantified in terms of abundance, shape, size, color, and polymer type with average abundances 546. Ulva sp. Seagrass and marine algae belonging to genera Halimeda and Caulerpa are common in the seabed depth ranging from 5–10 m. nkaWorking Paper No. 8 ± 17. relationship between the reef fish and coral cover along the Eastern coast of Sri Lanka. In total, 272 reef fish species and 101 coral species were recorded. A) Talpe, B) Koggala, C) Ahangama, D) Sargassum sp. Jan 27, 2024 · The predicted Maximum entropy distribution models for the coral reef habitats of Sri Lanka revealed a significant amount of coral reef cover around the island (~2739 km 2) which might deplete by This study investigated the abundance, distribution, and characteristics of microplastics from ten coral reef ecosystems in Sri Lanka, a non-quantified threat for some context. The Asia Regional Office is in Bangkok, Thailand. More species of fish have been found at Buona Vista than anywhere else in Sri Lanka, according to studies carried out by Prasanna Weerakkody and Laksiri Karunaratne, but many species have already been wiped out by uncontrolled collecting for the aquarium fish Common causes of bleaching and coral death include pollution, abnormally warm water temperatures, increased ocean acidification, sedimentation, and eutrophication. 6%), than in fish abundance (0–15%). Coral reefs are present in varying conditions, and coral diversity has previously been reported for Sri Lankan reefs with total of 90 species of stony corals belonging to 39 genera, May 8, 2013 · PDF | On May 8, 2013, PB Terney Pradeep Kumara published Influence of turbidity regime on larval settlement patterns of stony coral Pocillopora damicornis in Polhena reef, Sri Lanka | Find, read Sri Lanka, an island nation located off the southeast coast of the Indian sub-continent, has an unappreciated diversity of corals and other reef organisms. Hikkaduwa. The reef was particularly well known for its colourful branching and table corals until 1998, when a rise in seawater temperature during an El Niño event resulted There are numerous species of coral, but they are broadly classified into two main categories – hard corals and soft corals. acrochordi d) Oct 1, 2015 · The predicted Maximum entropy distribution models for the coral reef habitats of Sri Lanka revealed a significant amount of coral reef cover around the island (~2739 km 2) which might deplete by Jan 1, 2018 · Green, red, and brown algae, mollusks, sea cucumbers, sea anemones, lobsters and reef fish abound in these reefs. In Sri Lanka, these ecosystems are the backbone of fisheries and tourism, home to diverse marine life. It is known for its vibrant coral reefs and colourful fish, making it a popular spot Arulananthan A, Herath V, Kuganathan S, Upasanta A, Harishchandra A. Identifying Characteristics: The many snakes belonging to this genus greatly vary in length, with the smallest species being 15 cm (6 inches) long and the largest species reaching 180 cm (71 inches) long! Most bleached reefs in Sri Lanka have lost their previously dominant coral species and have shown a shift in dominance towards other coral species or to other communities such as calcareous and filamentous algae (Rajasuriya 2002). Sixty‐five coral genera (171 species) and 35 species of butterflyfish are recorded from Sri Lankan reefs. Pambala South, Kakkapalliya, Sri Jul 25, 2023 · Abundance and diversity of reef fish species and their relationship with corals along the eastern coast of Sri Lanka E. Jan 1, 2012 · The natural vegetation in Sri Lanka supports over 3771 species of flowering plants (angiosperms) from 214 families and 1522 genera (of which 24. This book long fills a gap, as country-specific field guides for Sri Lanka have not been readily available for marine enthusiasts to learn about reef fishes in its Coral reefs around Sri Lanka have coexisted with human communities for thousands of years and are a continual source of food, economic productivity, and tourism. Although these reef systems sustain nearby populations, little is known about the presence or functional role of microbial communities on reefs dominated by hard corals or fleshy algae. 6% are endemic), and 314 species of ferns and fern The area encompassing the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef was named as a national park in 2002, making it one of only three marine national parks found in Sri Lanka. Spatial heterogeneity is a key reef characteristic providing diverse living Feb 22, 2021 · IUCN Sri Lanka Office in 2020 published the report “Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity in the Islands and Lagoons of Northern Sri Lanka” documenting the findings of a historical biodiversity study that was carried out in 22 coastal islands and four lagoons of northern Sri Lanka. [CrossRef] CRC Sheppard. In addition, there is a diversity of Sri Lanka diving locations that will astound even the most seasoned divers, from incredible wreck dives to beautiful coral reefs alive with life. Fish and Wildlife Service has listed 10 Acropora species as Threatened. Many of the 100 species of corals Jan 15, 2020 · Figure 2: Seaweeds of coastal waters of the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. ) are found. — Slowinski, Boundy & Lawson, 2001 [3] [4] Calliophis melanurus, commonly known as the slender coral snake, is a species of venomous elapid snake [4] [2] endemic to the Indian subcontinent. 3) (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral and evenness (E ≥ 0. Coral Species and Life Cycles of Crabs & Shrimps; Kakkapalliya, Sri Lanka. The Pigeon Island National Park, located in Trincomalee, is one of the newer parks in the island, and has quickly become one of the more popular parks in the country. plants, 107 species of freshwater fish, 59 species of amphibians, 174 species of. Scuba diving in Sri Lanka is an exploration of the incredible marine life that the country has to offer. Using his marine experience of nearly four decades, the author has provided accurate descriptions of selected reef fishes, with precise illustrations by Shantha Jayaweera, which will be immensely useful for those interested in Jan 1, 2002 · Status of coral reefs in Sri Lanka; community involvement and the use of data in management. Coral reefs around Sri Lanka have coexisted with human communities for thousands of years and are a continual source of food, economic productivity, and tourism. Oceans 2021 , 2 , 509–529. The months between May and September is the best time to snorkel here. Reef fish assemblage patterns can be affected by natural and Mar 27, 1998 · 1)Coral reefs contain the greatest part of Sri Lanka’s marine biological diversity. Ramawickrama +5 authors S. This was done in an attempt to protect the fringing reef which was degrading over time due to overexposure. Watch out for sea turtles and black tip reef sharks. A workshop on “Coral Species Identification and Reef Restoration” intending to broaden the scope of Navy divers, was successfully held at the Command Diving & Salvage Unit (East) in Naval Dockyard Trincomalee and Sandy Bay on 13 th and 14 th September 2022. Snorkelers and divers can explore the colorful coral gardens, swim among schools of tropical fish, and spot various marine creatures, including reef sharks, turtles, and rays. Discover vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters at top snorkelling destinations like Pigeon Island, Hikkaduwa, and Mirissa. The abundance and distribution of reef and reef-associated fish species concerning substrate characteristics were empirically ascertained, evaluating protected (Bonavista) and non-protected (Trincomalee) coral reef ecosystems in Sri Lanka. This is the first in a series of field guides describing 158 species of reef fishes in Sri Lankan coastal waters. Sep 15, 2022 · Workshop on “Coral Species Identification and Reef Restoration” held in Trincomalee . The Status of the Coral Reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar-Coding. Dont miss it while youre on board for some fun scuba-time! Price: Starting from INR 3,000. Image courtesy of Susantha Udagedara. One could explore the sheer beauty of Hikkaduwa’s underwater paradise by snorkelling, diving, or by chartering a glass-bottomed boat. Jul 18, 2022 · The status of the coral reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 coral species new to Sri Lanka confirmed by DNA bar-coding. Coral reef benthos cover was recorded, and reef However, all sites were characterised by high values of diversity (H’ ≥ 2. Hereby, the study provides interesting new information on the coral fauna of the poorly studied reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula, Northern Sri Lanka, and encourag-ingly reports relatively high coral cover values. It’s also a great site for beginners to learn how to dive, as a Sri Lanka, an island nation located off the southeast coast of the Indian sub-continent, has an unappreciated diversity of corals and other reef organisms. abundance and biodiversity of coral reefs and reef fish and ii). Since it doesn’t get as many tourists as the other reefs, Bar Reef remains relatively untouched and it makes for a great snorkelling experience without the crowds. com Aug 11, 2008 · A new species of coralsnake from central Sri Lanka is described, Calliophis haematoetron, which differs from C. ) is the dominant genera. Colombo (Sri Lanka), 23 May – 3 June 2019 Species specific matters CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT OF AND TRADE IN MARINE ORNAMENTAL FISHES 1. These events have resulted in reef health For the investigation of bioactive components from Sri Lankan seaweeds, three species of red algae (Chondrophycus ceylanicus, Gelidiella acerosa, Gracilaria corticata), two species of green algae Porites lobata. 8% at Pigeon Island (PI); the mean across all sample sites (mean ± SD) was 43. Feb 1, 2024 · The study aimed to understand the reef fish abundance, diversity, and relationships between reef fish families and coral families at five major coral reef ecosystems on the Eastern coast of Sri Lanka. Computer Assisted Coral Identification System: an electronic approach to identify common coral species of Sri Lanka Terney Pradeep Kumara 2015, Journal of the University of Ruhuna Lanka Mangrove Museum, No: 560, Pambala South, Kakkapalliya, Sri Lanka. From March 2017 to August 2018, we carried out baseline surveys at selected sites on the northern coastline of the Coral Reefs in Sri Lanka As a tropical island nation, Sri Lanka is home to an abundance of coral reefs rich in biodiversity, with over 180 hard coral reef species recorded island-wide. Abstract: Using his marine experience of nearly four decades, the author has provided accurate descriptions of selected reef fishes, with precise illustrations by Shantha Jayaweera. The species are distributed in the Indo-Pacific (over 100 species) and Caribbean (3 species). The National Zoological Gardens Department and a researcher from the Ocean University of Sri Lanka have initiated an ex-situ coral restoration project—a technique for the conservation of biological diversity Sri Lanka. This document has been submitted by European Union, Switzerland and the United States of America. 2%. Aug 18, 2023 · Key Takeaways. few records for other reef invertebrates common in Sri Lanka except that five species ofspiny lobster (Panulirus spp. They are the Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis), the Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), the Ceylon Blue-eared Kingfisher (Alcedo meninting), the Three-toed Kingfisher (Ceyx erithacus), the Stork-billed Kingfisher (Pelargopis capensis),the White-breasted Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis) and the Black-capped Purple Kingfisher (Halcyon pileata). Reefs in Sri Lanka have been increasingly exposed to deleterious natural events and anthropogenic activities in the recent decades. Offshore barrier reefs of good condition occur at two locations along the western coast, as well as on two submerged ridges off the southeast coast (Great and Little Bases). They commonly form ‘micro-atolls’ in intertidal habitats. True coralline reefs are few, and most with their general locations known have been View Larger Map. Aug 11, 2008 · W e describe a n ew species of coral snake, Calliophis h aematoetron, fr om central Sri Lanka. Asian coral snakes. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] Jan 26, 2024 · Coral reefs are one of the most productive marine ecosystems that support reefs and reef-associated fish and invertebrates. Arulananthan V. May 11, 2024 · The Status of the Coral Reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar-Coding. In particular, knowledge of the status of coral reefs in its northern region has been limited May 11, 2024 · The Status of the Coral Reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar-Coding. Calliophis melanurus. METHODS 2. The 35 species ofButterflyfish recorded for Sri Lanka is high by world standards for butterflyfish richness. Sri Lanka offers over 26 stunning dive sites, including Trincomalee, Passikudah, Kalpitiya, Hikkaduwa (Barracuda Reef), Weligama, and Colombo’s Gorgonian Gardens. Characters: Colonies are usually hemispherical or helmet-shaped and may be over 4 metres across. Uppaveli-N ilaveli is a 12-k m coastal stretc h, Sri Lanka is 18 species (15 elapids, 2 homalopsids, 1. May 2024; Jan 30, 2018 · Achala Arunalu, President of Reforest Sri Lanka—a group which has decided to take up coral reef restoration projects this year—mentioned to Roar Media that the ecological balance of the ocean will definitely be affected if damage to coral reefs continues. Feb 9, 2024 · Our study aimed to understand the reef fish abundance, diversity, and relationships between reef fish families and coral families at five major coral reef ecosystems on the Eastern coast of Sri 7. Oceans 2021, 2, 509–529. genera, 27 of which included 70 homotypic species [3–6]. General Description Kayankerni reef is located north of Pasikudah on the east coast of Sri Lanka. 1. 6 May 11, 2024 · The Status of the Coral Reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar-Coding. 3 items kg -1, 9. Sri Lankan marine biologists are also in touch with their Maldivian colleagues. Nine of these species, recorded as rare in Sri Jan 14, 2024 · Urgent moves are underway to preserve Sri Lanka’s coral reefs, which are facing the dual threats of climate change and pollution. mangrovemuseum@gmail. In particular, knowledge of the status of coral reefs in its northern region has been limited due to 30 years of civil war. From the picturesque Bundala National Park to the lush Sinharaja Forest Reserve, birdwatchers can revel in the melodious tunes and vibrant plumage of the island’s feathered residents. Comment on “Arulananthan et al. Sri Lanka, with 17 million people and a coastline of about 1,585 km, has nearshore coral reefs of varying quality along about 2% (up to 32 km) of the linear coast. When it rains, these snakes quickly climb up trees and cacti to keep them dry. 2024; 5(2):276-284. and. Sep 5, 2023 · Coral reefs off the coast of Sri Lanka are works of beauty created by nature. Hikkaduwa: Situated on the west coast, Hikkaduwa is a popular tourist destination famous for its marine sanctuary. com Explore the wonders of coral reefs, covering less than 1% of the world’s oceans but supporting 25% of marine species. This increase could have triggered the bleaching. There were 36 new coral species confirmed by DNA bar coding for Northern Sri Lanka [7]. National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Similar Species: Porites solida. 3 items kg−1, 9. 2km off the coast of Kalpitiya, you will find Bar Reef which is the largest coral reef and protected marine area in Sri Lanka. These underwater jungles, which are home to a wide variety of coral species, are vibrantly colored. Hikkaduwa is a famous beach town located about 100 km south of Colombo. [1] [4] Two subspecies are recognized, [4] [2] including the nominotypical subspecies . Sri Lanka, known for its tropical beauty, is home to a rich variety of coral reefs. The study was conducted by IUCN Sri Lanka, together with the Urban Development Authority (UDA Mar 22, 2024 · Scuba divers will love the island of Sri Lanka. Immerse yourself in the beau. Nov 1, 2023 · Sri Lanka is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 430 bird species, including the vibrant Sri Lankan junglefowl, making it an avian enthusiast’s dream. Calliophis. Paper presented to the Mar 22, 2024 · The southern coast of Sri Lanka is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Marine ornamental fishes are coral reef fishes and live among, or in close relation, to coral reefs. duglas@gmail. In 1994 a total of 1473 of persons were directly engaged in mining, collecting and transporting of sea corals while another 800 persons were engaged in inland coral mining activities. com mangrove. They are a valuable resource for the country’s coastal communities through coastal fisheries, contributes to coastal and marine biodiversity by sustaining families and coral families at five major coral reef ecosystems on the Eastern coast of Sri Lanka. The highest and lowest relative abundance of fish was recorded at the Kay-ankerni (KR) and Adukkuparu reefs (AR) respectively. pf ox ao os uc ab qv gq fh hg