Spatial distribution and dynamics of selected mangrove forests on the east and west coasts of Sri Lanka

The climate and edaphic characteristics primarily determine the spatial distribution dynamics of mangrove forests. present study was initiated to how species composition structural vary along with substrate salinity six forests located on west coast, i.e., Negombo estuary, Chilaw lagoon, Malwathu oya east Batticaloa Uppar Urani lagoon. parameters in terms tree height, basal area, biomass, density were obtained vegetation structure current found that although communities two coasts does not differ significantly (P<0.05), plant diversity areas coast is higher than mangroves. In contrast, biomass accumulation mangroves relatively lower coast. Tree height influence productivity increment under investigation. As such, our suggests regional variations salinity, temperature, rainfall serve as drivers variation Sri Lanka.