Ethnobiological Importance of Mangrove Ecosystems in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka: Insights for Conservation Priorities

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems are vital to the livelihoods of coastal communities, offering a range of ecological, economic, and social benefits. Ethnobiological surveys provide critical on-the-ground insights into how local communities interact with and utilize these ecosystems. In recent decades, the Trincomalee district of Sri Lanka has experienced numerous natural and human-induced disturbances. The recent economic crisis has further accelerated mangrove degradation, as communities have become more reliant on these ecosystems for firewood. The objective of this study, conducted in May 2024 in Trincomalee, Eastern Province, Sri Lanka, was to understand the ethnobiological importance of mangroves and inform conservation priorities. We explored community perceptions of mangrove ecosystems through ethnobiological interviews with 25 participants actively engaged in conservation efforts, comprising 16 males and 09 females from the 18 to 80 age category. Participants reported significant changes in mangrove ecosystems over time, emphasizing their importance for community livelihoods, coastal protection, and medicinal uses. On average, 40-50% of the mangroves have been lost in the area as perceived by the participants. Traditional practices related to the use of mangroves, such as using mangroves as medicinal plants and incorporating mangrove-derived ingredients in traditional food, underscore their importance to local communities. Environmental threats such as destructive fishing practices, motorboat use in lagoons, sand mining, urbanization, and pollution were identified as major challenges affecting both the mangrove ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Community involvement in decision-making processes regarding mangrove management was found to be minimal, with existing conservation initiatives being perceived as ineffective. Participants stressed the need for capacity building, greater awareness, and sustainable mangrove management. Key recommendations included providing incentives to support community livelihoods, restricting motorboat use, limiting sand mining, and conducting awareness programs for schoolchildren and local communities. Participants also proposed establishing a clear governance structure from the District Secretary to local-level officers and appointing a dedicated mangrove protection officer. This study provides valuable insights into mangrove conservation in Trincomalee, emphasizing the need for community engagement, stakeholder collaboration, and adaptive management to ensure sustainable ecosystem management.

Keywords: Coastal management, Community-based conservation, Ethnobiology, Mangrove conservation, Traditional knowledge