RESEARCH ARTICLE

SUSTAINABILITY OF MANGROVE RESTORATION AND CONSERVATION IN KALPITIYA

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems are inevitably threatened by the rapid increase of coastal population. Kalpitiya peninsula is located in Puttalam lagoon area where the largest extent of mangrove forest have been recorded. Due to diverse socio-economic and natural consequences mangroves in Kalpitiya have been degraded. The aim of the research is to evaluate the sustainability of mangrove restoration and conservation in Kalpitiya. Non-structured interviews and 5m X 5m quadrant sampling method for vegetation sampling was used collect primary data. Arc GIS 10.1 version and MS excel 2013 version was applied to perform mapping and data analysis. 99 % of Rhizophora species are used for restoration attempts. Due to this the diversity of restored mangroves have been reduced. Mudflat surfaces in Daluwa and Mampuriya areas have been failed to conserve and restore mangroves.90% of restored mangroves in Anaiwasala are survived while recently planted mangroves have been threatened due to socio-economic consequences in the area. More than 60% of Kalpitiya restored mangroves are survived while 80% of restored mangroves are survived in Kurugngnampitiya and Amma Thottam. Rare and very rare species particular to this area have been marginalized in too few locations. 90% of residents in Kalpitiya depend on mangrove ecosystem and have identified the importance of mangroves for fishery activities. Minimum five year period spend for the success of mangrove restoration while the destruction of mangroves is faster than restoration. Considering the vulnerability of mangroves new conservation and restoration measures have to be implemented.

Keywords: diversity, Kalpitiya, mangrove, restoration, sustainability

How to Cite: Gunathilaka,M.D.K.L, (2017). SUSTAINABILITY OF MANGROVE RESTORATION AND CONSERVATION IN KALPITIYA.WILDLANKA, 5(3):Pages 142-149

Published On:2017-09-30

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