Total extent of mangrove areas in Sri Lanka is 8000 -
10,000 ha and they are mainly located around lagoons and estuaries.
21 exclusive mangrove species, 17 mangrove associated species
and 5 salt marsh species have been recorded from Sri Lanka.
Fin fish, crustaceans and bivalves constitute the major mangrove
fauna. Value of mangrove ecosystems derive both from the forest
products such as firewood, tanbark and timber they produce and
the amenities/services they render, such as shoreline/river bank
protection, reduction of flood^damage and especially as nursary
and feeding grounds for a variety of aquatic organisms, including
commercially important species. Mangrove areas/waters in Sri Lanka
are primarily used for fishing, which is artisanal in nature and
such areas alojiig the south western coast are also used for tourist
recreation. Monetory gains from forest products are less than ••
those from fishery yields. Human dependence as well as their impact
on the resource are discussed.