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Mangroves are powerful natural carbon sinks, capturing and storing atmospheric carbon in their biomass and soils. The Chilaw Lagoon mangrove ecosystem holds immense untapped potential as a natural carbon sink. Through the evaluation of aboveground, belowground, and sediment carbon stores, this study provides important new insights into the lagoon's potential to mitigate climate change. The results of this study may support conservation and restoration initiatives while highlighting the ecological and economic significance of mangroves. In order to improve climate resilience plans and encourage sustainable ecosystem management in coastal communities, this study provides baseline data to stakeholders and policymakers.

Mangroves and Climate Resilience: Carbon Stock Estimation in Chilaw Lagoon

Mangroves are powerful natural carbon sinks, capturing and storing...

The mangrove ecosystems of the Pambala–Chilaw Lagoon are more than just forests by the sea – they are living laboratories of biodiversity. Beneath the tangled web of Rhizophora mucronata roots, an entire community of organisms thrives, playing vital roles in keeping these ecosystems healthy. 🔹 A Natural Reef System Barnacles, oysters, mussels, and worms settle on mangrove prop roots, turning them into miniature reefs. These layered surfaces provide safe havens for crabs, shrimps, juvenile fish, and countless small creatures. 🔹 Ecosystem Engineers Sessile filter feeders like oysters and barnacles clean the water by removing suspended particles, while crabs and mollusks recycle nutrients by breaking down fallen leaves. Together, they stabilize sediments, trap carbon, and protect shorelines. 🔹 Balancing the Food Web Root-dwelling species not only feed on algae and detritus but also serve as prey for birds and larger fish. This delicate balance maintains the health and productivity of the lagoon. 🔹 Foundation Species Oysters and mussels act as “foundation species” – creating structures that allow other organisms to settle, grow, and flourish. Their presence transforms simple roots into complex, multi-layered habitats. 🔹 Three Unique Study Sites Researchers explored three areas of the lagoon: Open Lagoon – brackish waters with slower flow, rich in sediments. Bata Canal – lined with 1995 mangrove plantations, offering diverse habitats. Dutch Canal – with stronger tidal exchange and higher salinity, creating distinct settlement patterns. 🐚 From camouflaged crabs and black tiger shrimp hiding among roots, to oysters building reefs that support countless others, the mangrove root zone is a bustling underwater city. These hidden ecosystems remind us that conserving mangroves means protecting not just trees, but the entire web of life they support. 🌊🌿

🌱 Life Beneath the Mangrove Roots – A Hidden World of Biodiversity 🌱

The mangrove ecosystems of the Pambala–Chilaw Lagoon are more...

Tropical mangroves are rich in carbon and play an important role in reducing climate change by storing carbon dioxide in their trees and soils. However, in Sri Lanka, little research has been done on how restored mangroves contribute to carbon storage. This study looks at mangrove restoration and afforestation efforts in the Chilaw lagoon, which began in 1994 with the planting of Rhizophora mucronata and R. apiculata. Research was carried out in a 25-year-old mangrove plantation covering about 0.25 hectares. We identified the species present, measured tree height and girth, and estimated above- and below-ground biomass and organic carbon using standard methods and equations.

Carbon sequestration potential of 25-year-old planted mangroves: effects of monoculture cultivation, natural species colonization, and multi-species transition

Tropical mangroves are rich in carbon and play an...

Taxonomic Classification of Scylla serrata:  Kingdom: Animalia  Phylum: Arthropoda  Subphylum: Crustacea  Class: Malacostraca  Order: Decapoda  Infraorder: Brachyura  Family: Portunidae Common Names: Mud crab, Mangrove crab, Giant Mud Crab, Green Crab

Giant Mud Crab- Scylla Serrata

Giant Mud Crab- Scylla Serrata The larvae develop in...

Mangrove Distribution in Sri Lanka Data created By W.N. Duglas Thesera

Mangrove Distribution in Sri Lanka, updated as of September 1, 2023

“Mangrove Distribution in Sri Lanka”, updated as of September...

Due to their buoyancy, plastics travel long distances by wind, tides, and currents—reaching even remote islands and deep-sea areas. Events like floods and hurricanes further push land-based debris into the sea. Ocean currents gather these plastics into vast “garbage patches”.

How Plastics End Up in the Ocean ?

Studies have found that 80% of the plastics are...

Monkeys, though not traditionally considered primary pollinators like bees or butterflies, can play a role in pollination, particularly in tropical and subtropical ecosystems. This process is known as therophily, which refers to pollination by non-flying mammals.

Yes, Monkeys Help with Pollination! You Heard It Right!

Monkeys, though not traditionally considered primary pollinators like bees...

On December 18, 2024, the Lanka Mangrove Museum had the honor of welcoming a research student from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States. Her research focuses on one of the most vital contributions of mangrove ecosystems to the environment — carbon sequestration. Her visit highlights the museum’s ongoing commitment to supporting research and fostering global collaboration in the field of mangrove conservation.

Research Student from the University of North Carolina, USA

On December 18, 2024, the Lanka Mangrove Museum had...

The recent heavy rains over Pambala Lagoon have transformed the serene waters into a mesmerizing natural spectacle. The rising floodwaters have created an unexpected phenomenon – crabs climbing onto tree trunks! While these crustaceans are typically known for scuttling along the muddy banks and shallow waters, the sudden inundation has pushed them to seek refuge above ground. It’s incredible to witness their adaptability and survival instincts as they climb mangrove trunks, showcasing their determination to weather the storm.

Meet the Perisesarma Crab – A Mangrove Marve

After heavy rains at Pambala Lagoon, a fascinating natural...

Mangroves and fishing communities are deeply interconnected, as mangroves play a vital role in sustaining the livelihoods and ecological balance of coastal areas. Here’s an overview of how mangroves benefit fishing communities:

Mangroves: A Lifeline for Fishing Communities

Mangroves and fishing communities are deeply interconnected, as mangroves...

Delve into the rich coral diversity of Sri Lanka at the Lanka Mangrove Museum. Explore fascinating insights into marine biodiversity, coral ecosystems, and their conservation importance

Marine Biodiversity: Discovering Sri Lanka’s rich coral diversity and its vital role in marine ecosystems.

Delve into the rich coral diversity of Sri Lanka...

"IDDRR 2024 event at Lanka Mangrove Museum highlighting the role of mangroves in disaster risk reduction and community resilience."

International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2024

Celebrate International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2024...

Threat Status of Mangroves Around the World

Threat Status of Mangroves Around the World – IUCN

Explore the global threat status of mangroves in the...

Participants celebrating the International Day of Sign Languages at Lanka Mangrove Museum

Celebrating the International Day of Sign Languages

Join the Lanka Mangrove Museum in celebrating the International...

Volunteers participating in World Cleanup Day 2024 to remove marine litter in Sri Lanka

World Cleanup Day 2024: Combating Marine Litter in Sri Lanka

World Cleanup Day 2024 marks a significant global effort...

"Global celebration of the 2024 International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer with awareness initiatives in Sri Lanka."

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer/Date (2024)

The article highlights the significance of the International Day...

Contrasting images showing natural sand patterns and beach pollution, with crab tracks in sand juxtaposed against plastic waste on a coastal shoreline, highlighting environmental impact

Environmental Footprints: From Nature’s Grace to Human Waste: A Call for Change

The contrast between nature's gentle imprints and human-generated waste...

Global distribution of mangroves showcasing their adaptation, ecological importance, biodiversity support, and coastal protection across diverse regions.

Distribution of mangroves within different regions of the globe.

Explore the global distribution of mangroves and understand their...

World Earth Day celebration at Lanka Mangrove Museum, promoting environmental awareness and sustainability

World Earth Day – ජගත් පරිසර දින සැමරුම

Lanka Mangrove Museum celebrates World Earth Day with activities...

SL Foresters working on mangrove conservation efforts.

Sri Lanka Foresters Orders

: SL Foresters engage in mangrove conservation efforts, protecting...

Lumnitzera littorea, a vital mangrove species, supports coastal ecosystems, prevents erosion, and provides habitat for diverse marine life.

Lumnitzera littorea – Black mangrove (Ratha-Milla)

Explore Lumnitzera littorea, an essential mangrove species that prevents...

Xylocarpus granatum, an important mangrove species, stabilizes coastlines, prevents erosion, and provides habitat for marine biodiversity.

Xylocarpus granatum – Mutti-Kadol

Discover Xylocarpus granatum, a vital mangrove species that stabilizes...

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