Mangrove Distribution in Sri Lanka
“Mangrove Distribution in Sri Lanka”, updated as of September 1, 2023, provides an insightful overview of the presence of true mangrove species across different districts in the country. It was prepared by W.N. Duglas Thesera, Director of the Lanka Mangrove Museum.
The table lists 22 scientifically recognized true mangrove species, showing their occurrence in districts such as Ampara, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Mullaitivu, Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mannar, Puttalam, Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Matara, and Hambantota. Each species is marked with a red oval in the corresponding district, indicating its presence.
- Most widely distributed species include Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, Excoecaria agallocha, Ceriops tagal, and Lumnitzera racemosa, found across multiple districts.
- Avicennia marina stands out with its presence in 12 districts, making it one of the most common species in Sri Lanka.
- Some species, such as Lumnitzera littorea and Rhizophora anamalyana, are rare, recorded in only one or two districts.
- District-wise, Colombo records the highest number of mangrove species (20), followed closely by Trincomalee (14) and Hambantota (13).
- In contrast, districts like Mannar, Mullaitivu, and Kilinochchi show lower species diversity with around 8–9 species each.
Mangroves are vital ecosystems providing shoreline protection, serving as nurseries for marine life, and acting as significant carbon sinks. The distribution data highlights the richness and variability of Sri Lanka’s mangrove cover, which needs careful conservation due to increasing threats from urbanization, aquaculture, and deforestation.
This comprehensive record is a crucial reference for researchers, conservationists, and policymakers working towards mangrove protection and restoration in Sri Lanka. By understanding where each species thrives, targeted conservation and reforestation programs can be designed to preserve biodiversity and strengthen coastal resilience.
- Most widely distributed species include Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, Excoecaria agallocha, Ceriops tagal, and Lumnitzera racemosa, found across multiple districts.
- Avicennia marina stands out with its presence in 12 districts, making it one of the most common species in Sri Lanka.
- Some species, such as Lumnitzera littorea and Rhizophora anamalyana, are rare, recorded in only one or two districts.
- District-wise, Colombo records the highest number of mangrove species (20), followed closely by Trincomalee (14) and Hambantota (13).
- In contrast, districts like Mannar, Mullaitivu, and Kilinochchi show lower species diversity with around 8–9 species each.
