GRANTS

    

Marine Conservation

TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEM CONSERVATION

EFFECTIVE WASTE MANAGEMENT

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

Biodiversity and Habitat Mapping of Urban Reefs in Colombo

awarded

Objective:

Colombo’s marine waters, often overlooked for their biodiversity, are home to a diversity of species of conservation significance and feature extensive reef habitats, ranging from nearshore rocky reefs to deep coral ecosystems. 

Surveys by Blue Resources Trust (BRT), have uncovered thriving offshore coral reefs near Colombo, with coral cover exceeding 50% in some areas. Reefs are ecologically significant, providing coastal protection, supporting artisanal and commercial fisheries, and serving as hotspots for recreational scuba diving. Despite their importance, knowledge about these reefs remains limited.

With the support of the Lanka Environment Fund, Blue Resources Trust plans to map five offshore reef sites, focusing on habitats, species, and ecological dynamics. The team is surveying five offshore reef sites- Palagala, Watiya, Pitagala, Gingiripita, and Yakampita - using techniques such as photo quadrats, visual fish censuses, and Deep Blue Pro drop cameras to document coral cover, reef fish populations, and habitat structure.

The findings will enhance understanding of Colombo’s coral ecosystems, encouraging further research and conservation efforts. Ultimately, the project aims to develop a habitat management plan to protect these vital ecosystems.

The main objectives of the project include:

  1. Improving understanding of habitat structure, species, and ecology of reef habitats in Colombo.
  2. Increasing knowledge and awareness of the urban seascape of Colombo.
  3. Encourage further research and conservation initiatives for significant yet underrepresented marine habitats in Sri Lanka.
  4. Support a process to develop a marine habitat management plan for Colombo.

Photo credit: Nishan Perera