Publications
First Record of the Critically Endangered Vandeleuria nolthenii from Hakgala Botanical Garden, Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
Researchers document the first record of the Critically Endangered Vandeleuria nolthenii, a montane-endemic rodent, from Hakgala Botanical Garden in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands. This discovery extends the known distribution of the species within human-modified montane habitats, highlighting its ability to utilize exotic vegetation and persist in modified landscapes. The observation involved five small, long-tailed mice emerging from a cavity in a dead Cupressus macrocarpa tree, suggesting a mother accompanied by nearly grown offspring. The study underscores the potential of citizen science in documenting elusive small mammals and advocates for continued collaboration among visitors, naturalists, and researchers to support monitoring and conservation efforts.
Human‐Caused Leopard Deaths in Sri Lanka Are Concentrated in Central Highlands' Estate Mosaics: Evidence From 17 Years of Mortality Records
A significant increase in human-caused leopard deaths in Sri Lanka has been documented over 17 years, with mortality rates rising and clustering heavily in the Central Highlands' plantation landscapes. The study, analyzing 164 recorded deaths (2008–2024), revealed a male bias (68.4%) and adult dominance (87.3%), with snares being the leading cause (62.3%). Nuwara Eliya district alone accounted for 38.4% of cases, despite covering only 4.4% of Sri Lanka's leopard range. The research highlights critical hotspots and calls for targeted mitigation efforts, particularly in highland plantations, to combat snare-related threats.
Leopards Exhibit Nuanced Predation Patterns but Rely on Wild Prey in a Human‐Dominated Agricultural Landscape in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
Leopards in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, despite being generalist and opportunistic predators, show nuanced predation patterns that favor wild prey over domestic species, even in heavily agricultural landscapes. A study analyzing 107 leopard scat samples revealed that while small prey like the black-naped hare were most frequently consumed, medium-sized barking deer and large sambar deer contributed significantly to biomass intake, indicating selective foraging behavior. Domestic dogs, contrary to local perceptions, were moderately avoided, suggesting a positive outcome for human-leopard coexistence. Wild species constituted over 85% of the diet, highlighting the resilience of natural prey bases in anthropogenically transformed environments. The research underscores the importance of preserving wild prey abundance and diversity to facilitate coexistence between leopards and humans.
Assessing the Economic and Ecological Costs of Human–Wildlife Conflict in Nuwara Eliya
Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, is driven primarily by wild boars, which cause significant agricultural damage, livestock losses, and infrastructure destruction. Spatial analysis identified conflict hotspots near forest and tea plantation boundaries, highlighting the impact of land use on HWC intensity. While farmers employ multiple mitigation strategies with varying effectiveness, the study emphasizes the need for region-specific solutions to foster sustainable coexistence between wildlife and local communities. The research combined field surveys, expert interviews, satellite imagery, and analytical techniques like the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to quantify economic and ecological costs.
Factors affecting fuel-wood consumption in the central highlands and conservation drawbacks to the montane forest system in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's montane forests, vital for biodiversity and water catchment, face growing threats from unsustainable fuelwood consumption. Research reveals that population growth, low income, traditional cooking methods, and limited access to alternative energy drive high demand, with households sourcing significant portions directly from nearby forests. This extraction exacerbates deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and biodiversity loss while degrading water retention capacity, increasing soil erosion and downstream water scarcity. The study highlights the need for integrated conservation strategies, including energy-efficient technologies and community-based interventions, to balance livelihood needs with forest preservation.
From snared to swimming: Some observations on the rescue, treatment, release and monitoring of an injured Sri Lankan leopard ( Panthera pardus kotiya )
A rescued and translocated Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), the island's apex predator, demonstrated remarkable navigational behavior by swimming across open water to return to its original range within three weeks of release. This was the first GPS radio-collared translocated leopard in Sri Lanka, providing novel insights into post-release movement patterns and the effectiveness of translocation as a conservation strategy. The study involved surgical treatment, rehabilitation, and monitoring over four months before release in a protected area, followed by tracking to assess its survival and behavior. Findings suggest that translocation may not be an optimal solution for snared leopards unless absolutely necessary, given their strong homing instincts.
Bush fires of central highlands of Sri Lanka: What is the triple bottom line
Bushfires in Sri Lanka's central highlands, driven by climate patterns and introduced flammable vegetation, pose significant social, economic, and environmental threats. These fires, often sparked by human activity such as agricultural practices or negligence, are increasing in frequency and severity, leading to irreversible ecosystem damage. A study focusing on high-risk areas like Haldummulla and Imbulpe divisions revealed limited community adaptation strategies and a lack of resilient infrastructure, including early warning systems. The research employed mixed methods, including participatory approaches like transect walks and focus group discussions, to assess community vulnerability and preparedness. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated sustainability measures to mitigate bushfire impacts on these critical catchment areas.
Coleus hakgalensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Sri Lanka
Researchers have identified Coleus hakgalensis, a new species of plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, discovered in Sri Lanka's central highlands. This discovery is significant as it adds to the region's biodiversity and highlights the importance of its unique ecosystems. The species is morphologically distinct from its close relative, Coleus paniculatus, with notable features including an arcuate-branched habit, elongated inflorescence, and specific characteristics in its calyx and corolla. Due to its high risk of extinction in the wild, conservation efforts are already underway, emphasizing the urgency of protecting this newly identified species.
Conversion of Marginalized Tea Lands into Timber Plantations and its Impact on Soil Organic Carbon Content: A Case Study in Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
Converting marginalized tea lands into timber plantations significantly increases soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks, offering a potential strategy for climate change mitigation. A study in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands found that SOC stocks were 23% higher in converted timber plantations (155.3 ± 10.0 t C ha⁻¹) compared to marginalized tea lands (126.7 ± 5.8 t C ha⁻¹). This increase is attributed to reduced soil disturbance, litter accumulation, and decreased erosion, which enhance organic matter buildup. The research used soil samples from both land types, analyzing SOC via loss on ignition and bulk density estimates, followed by statistical comparisons. These findings suggest that land-use conversion could play a crucial role in sequestering atmospheric CO₂ while addressing economic challenges in tea cultivation.
Effects of global change on snakebite envenoming incidence up to 2050: a modelling assessment
Snakebite envenoming incidence in Sri Lanka is projected to decrease by 12–23% from 2010 to 2050, with regional variations influenced by global change factors. The study used a mechanistic model integrating climate, land cover, and population density forecasts under three development scenarios (sustainability, middle-of-the-road, and fossil-fuelled pathways). Findings indicate that while urban areas may see declines due to anthropisation, the central highlands and northern regions could experience localized increases despite overall reductions. These changes are attributed to shifts in snake species abundance and habitat suitability due to climate change. The research highlights the need for collaborative management of neglected tropical diseases and public health issues amid sustainability interventions.
Sustainable agriculture and responsible use of pesticides: commercial crop cultivators’ knowledge, attitudes, and practice perspectives regarding pesticide use
Smallholder vegetable farmers in the central highlands of Sri Lanka exhibit significant deficiencies in informedness regarding responsible pesticide use, primarily due to moderate knowledge levels and misconceptions about protective practices. Despite a reliance on pesticides as a means to increase crop yields, constraints such as limited access to information hinder their awareness. The study found that while knowledge and practice are significantly associated with informedness, attitudes do not play a significant role. Notably, men and younger farmers demonstrate higher levels of awareness compared to other demographic groups. Targeted efforts to enhance knowledge and correct misconceptions could improve farmers' informedness and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Two new species of the shieldtail snake genus Rhinophis Hemprich, 1820 (Serpentes: Uropeltidae), from the Rakwana and the Knuckles Massifs of Sri Lanka
Researchers have identified two new species of shieldtail snakes (Rhinophis) in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, increasing the known diversity of uropeltid snakes on the island to 20. Rhinophis martin, discovered in the Rakwana Massif, and Rhinophis dinarzardae, found in the Knuckles Massif, were distinguished through scalation patterns, coloration, geographical distribution, and genetic analysis. While R. dinarzardae was previously confused with R. philippinus due to superficial similarities, it differs in ventral scale count, habitat preference, and DNA sequences. The study employed morphological and molecular techniques to validate these discoveries, highlighting the importance of integrating multiple data types for species delimitation.
Comparative Assessment of Soil Chemical Characteristics in Two Contrasting Vegetable Cultivation Systems of Sri Lanka
Intensive vegetable cultivation systems in Sri Lanka's central highlands exhibit significantly higher levels of soil chemical properties such as pH-buffer capacity (pHBC), electrical conductivity (EC), total carbon (TC%), and total nitrogen (TN%) compared to other nutrients. A comparative study between two contrasting systems—vegetable-potato-vegetable in Nuwara Eliya and vegetable-paddy-vegetable in Marassana—revealed that nutrients like phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), sulfur (S), and zinc (Zn) were also notably elevated. These findings underscore the impact of high agricultural inputs on soil fertility, emphasizing the need for balanced nutrient supply to minimize environmental pollution while ensuring optimal plant growth.
Creeper legume, in conjunction with biochar, is a potential tool to minimize soil erosion
A combination of the creeper legume Vigna marina and biochar shows promise as an effective tool for minimizing soil erosion in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka. The study found that amending subsoil (SS) and decomposing parent materials (DPM) with 20% Pinus wood biochar significantly enhanced the growth of V. marina, with root nodules increasing up to three times compared to a reference treatment (RT). Nitrogen content in soils also improved, particularly in DPMb and SSb treatments, indicating that this approach could restore nutrient-poor, eroded lands. The research suggests that V. marina paired with biochar provides a sustainable vegetative cover for exposed soils, offering a practical solution to mitigate erosion caused by road development and agriculture.
Insights into the genetic diversity of Indian cardamom [Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton]: for a future research perspective
A comprehensive assessment of genetic diversity in Indian cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) reveals significant variability among 196 germplasm accessions, particularly in morphological and biometric traits, as well as yield potential. The study, conducted over three years (2016–2018), identified distinct markers such as compound panicle types, terminal panicle bearing, narrow leaf types, and dark green bold capsules with high-yield potential. These findings highlight the rich genetic diversity present in cardamom populations across the Western Ghats of India and Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, underscoring its potential for breeding region-specific varieties resilient to biotic stress. The research, part of the All India Coordinated Research Projects on Spices, emphasizes the importance of germplasm conservation for future crop improvement efforts.
Performance of Four Broad-leaved Tree Species in a Pinus Enrichment Trial in Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
A study on the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka identified Artocarpus nobilis and Michelia champaca as promising species for converting monoculture Pinus caribaea plantations to mixed-species stands. The research, conducted between 2004 and 2015, evaluated the performance of four broad-leaved tree species under varying light conditions—full shade (Pinus understorey), partial shade (three pine rows removed), and full light (open grassland). After removing all pine trees in 2010, A. nobilis exhibited the highest carbon sequestration and stock in both 2010 and 2015, while M. champaca showed the highest survival rate by 2015. This suggests that these species can effectively replace pine plantations, offering ecological and social benefits to mountainous regions in Sri Lanka.
Trichoglottis quadriga (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Vandeae: Aeridinae), a new species from Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
Researchers have identified Trichoglottis quadriga, a new orchid species endemic to the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, found at elevations between 900–1800 meters. This discovery distinguishes itself from its closest relative, the Vietnamese T. canhii, through key morphological differences: it features 4-flowered racemes (compared to 5–12 in T. canhii), a longer and narrower spur with a bi-lobed apex, and a significantly larger labellum. The study provides detailed taxonomic descriptions, color plates, line drawings, and a field identification key, alongside ecological notes on habitat and distribution. A preliminary IUCN risk assessment is also included to evaluate the species' conservation status.
A reservoir induced earthquake swarm in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
A previously undetected reservoir-induced earthquake swarm was identified beneath the Victoria Reservoir in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, marking the first recorded instance of induced seismicity in the country. The swarm consisted of five small (M W < 3) felt earthquakes and 23 microseismic events, occurring between August and December 2020. A newly developed single-station earthquake location method, combined with seismic waveform template-matching, revealed a seismogenic zone at depths of 1.5 to 3 km beneath the reservoir's western flank. Poroelastic theory predicted peak stresses of ~15 kPa on E-W striking faults, providing a causal link between reservoir-induced stresses and the seismic activity. This study not only establishes a significant finding for Sri Lanka but also introduces efficient computational workflows for monitoring induced seismicity in resource-limited settings.
Accumulation of essential mineral and toxic trace elements in crops and soils of vegetable cropping systems in central highlands of Sri Lanka
Vegetables grown in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, including cabbage, carrot, and potato, serve as significant sources of essential mineral elements such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn). However, they also contain trace amounts of toxic elements like arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb), though not exceeding permissible limits. The study analyzed 100 soil and vegetable samples at harvest, revealing that cabbage accumulates the highest concentrations of both essential minerals and toxic trace elements, while potato shows the lowest. Per capita consumption of these vegetables contributes substantially to daily intake recommendations for Cu, Zn, and Mn, with Mn coverage ranging from 22% to 87%. The research highlights the need for agronomic strategies to mitigate soil degradation and enhance the sustainability of vegetable cropping systems in this region.
Distribution and Conservation of Endemic Flowering Plants in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's endemic flowering plants, particularly concentrated in the Central Highlands and South Western Wet Zone, face severe threats with 72.4% of species, subspecies, and varieties listed as endangered. This high endemism, unique among South Asian countries, is driven by diverse factors but remains understudied in regions like the North East. Research using 5×5 km grid mapping identified nine endemic hotspots, including Adams Peak, Horton Plains, and Sinharaja, with four core areas exhibiting the highest concentrations of threatened species. Habitat loss, pollution, and lack of pollinators or dispersal agents are primary threats, necessitating urgent conservation action to protect this biodiversity.
Geoinformatics approach to classifying landslide hazard in The Hantana Mountain and its vicinity in Sri Lanka
A geoinformatics approach to landslide hazard classification in the Hantana Mountain, Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, reveals that 15% of the study area faces very high or high hazard levels. This finding underscores the significant vulnerability of urbanizing regions to landslides despite their limited spatial extent. Researchers utilized Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) and overlay techniques in ArcGIS, integrating six key factors—bedrock geology, surface deposits, slope, hydrology, land use, and landform—each weighted according to NBRO-Sri Lanka criteria. The study's methodology demonstrates the potential of geospatial tools to assess landslide risk, offering critical insights for urban planning and disaster mitigation in high-risk zones.
Integrating the Spatial Autocorrelation Structure of Irregularly Distributed Wind Measurement Stations to Model Wind Patterns Using R
A novel approach leveraging spatial autocorrelation and advanced statistical modeling in R successfully mapped wind patterns across Sri Lanka, particularly in the Central Highlands. By analyzing 23 irregularly distributed wind measurement stations with diurnal data from 2015, the study identified seasonal variations and diurnal changes in wind speed and direction, including significant coastal and highland dynamics. The use of semi-variograms—spherical and exponential models—and Ordinary Kriging enabled precise spatial interpolation, generating 48 weekly wind maps that pinpoint potential wind farming areas. This method not only advances wind energy resource planning but also demonstrates R's capability for analyzing complex geographic phenomena with high uncertainty.
Molecular and morphological species delimitation suggest a single species of the beetle-spider genus Ballus in Sri Lanka (Araneae: Salticidae)
A comprehensive genetic and morphological analysis of the beetle-spider genus Ballus in Sri Lanka reveals that only one species, B. segmentatus, exists on the island, contrary to previous taxonomic records. The study, using nuclear (28S rRNA, H3) and mitochondrial (COI) DNA sequences alongside morphological traits, found no genetic or structural distinctions among specimens from type localities in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka. Consequently, B. sellatus is proposed as a junior synonym, while B. clathratus remains unrecognized due to insufficient description. This finding underscores the need for revised conservation strategies tailored to the single confirmed species, highlighting the importance of integrative taxonomy in biodiversity assessment.
Spatial Patterns and Temporal Trends of Rainfall Seasonality in Sri Lanka
Approximately half of Sri Lanka shows strong trends in rainfall seasonality, with 61% of the country experiencing a decreasing trend. This finding is significant for agricultural planning and water resource management. The study used the seasonality index (SI) to analyze rainfall data from 39 stations over 29 years, identifying distinct rainfall regimes such as 'equable with a definite wetter season' in the southwest and central highlands, and 'markedly seasonal with a long drier season' in the east and north. Non-parametric Mann-Kendall test and Sen’s slope were applied to detect temporal changes in SI, revealing notable variability across regions.
The hidden diversity and inland radiation of Sri Lanka’s ground-dwelling geckos of the genusCyrtodactylus(Reptilia: Gekkonidae)
A new species of ground-dwelling gecko has been discovered within the Sri Lankan endemic Cyrtodactylus (G.) triedrus complex, challenging its long-standing classification as a single species. This finding was supported by morphological and phylogenetic evidence, revealing significant genetic divergence (11–26%) among species in this clade. The study also resurrected Geckoella punctata, reassigning it to the genus Cyrtodactylus and redescribing it with a designated lectotype. The research highlights deep evolutionary splits between Indian and Sri Lankan species, particularly within the dry and wet zone clades of the subgenus Geckoella. Additionally, C. (G.) triedrus sensu stricto was restricted to moist or submontane forests in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands, providing new insights into the biodiversity and biogeography of this region.
A New Species of Hemidactylus Goldfuss, 1820 (Reptilia: Gekkonidae) from Sri Lanka with Redescription of H. hunae Deraniyagala, 1937
Researchers have identified a new species of Hemidactylus gecko from the southern face peneplain foothills of Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, distinct from its close relative, H. hunae, through detailed morphological analysis. This discovery is marked by unique traits such as adult males reaching up to 121.2 mm in snout-vent length, specific dorsal scalation patterns with conical tubercles, and distinctive body markings including black-edged bright saddles from the occiput to the tail tip. The study also provides a comprehensive redescription of H. hunae based on its adult female holotype. The research employs comparative morphological analysis, focusing on key anatomical features to differentiate between species.
Assessment of physical vulnerability of buildings and socio-economic vulnerability of residents to rainfall induced cut slope failures: A case study in central highlands, Sri Lanka
A significant portion, 82%, of houses in landslide-prone areas of Sri Lanka's Central Highlands exhibit moderate vulnerability to rainfall-induced cut slope failures. This study reveals that the choice to reside in such high-risk zones is influenced by diverse community priorities and highlights a strong correlation between household per capita income and education level of the household head with increased vulnerability. The research employs a novel semi-quantitative methodology combining landslide intensity and building resistance capacity, assessed through extensive fieldwork and questionnaire surveys involving 322 households in Ambagamuwa. Regression analysis further explores this relationship, providing critical insights for disaster risk reduction strategies that consider both structural resilience and socio-economic factors to mitigate risks effectively.
Interpreting silicon isotopes in the Critical Zone
Silicon isotopes serve as powerful proxies for weathering and element cycling, with their interpretation hinging on three key parameters: parent mineral isotope ratios, partitioning between solute and secondary phases, and fractionation factors tied to clay formation. This study reveals that these parameters vary systematically along an erosion gradient, from the kinetically limited Rhone Valley in the Swiss Alps to tectonically inactive highlands of Sri Lanka. Differential weathering of primary minerals leads to distinct silicon isotope signatures in solubilized rock, while clay mineralogy and composition—particularly Si-poor clays—control mass balance and fractionation factors. Larger fractionation factors correlate with Al availability, suggesting a mechanistic link. These findings provide a quantitative framework for using silicon isotopes to reconstruct past and present weathering processes.
Quantifying biotic and abiotic Si fluxes in the Critical Zone with Ge/Si ratios along a gradient of erosion rates
A significant portion of silicon (Si) exported from rapidly eroding landscapes, such as the Central Swiss Alps, is transported as secondary solids—clays and plant material—rather than dissolved Si. This finding challenges conventional understanding by revealing that plant biomass contributes substantially to Si export, potentially equating to 25–110% of dissolved Si export in these systems. The study leverages germanium (Ge)/Si ratios across three sites with varying erosion rates—Sri Lanka, the Swiss Alps, and California’s Sierra Nevada—to trace Si cycling in the Critical Zone. Unlike prior approaches, Ge/Si ratios in secondary clays proved more reliable than river solutes for assessing weathering intensity, sometimes outperforming silicon isotopes. The research also highlights that plants do not significantly discriminate against Ge during uptake, suggesting a broader role for biotic processes in Si dynamics.
Rock weathering and nutrient cycling along an erodosequence
Rock weathering and nutrient cycling are fundamentally controlled by regolith residence time, not landscape erosion rates. This study, conducted across three global mountain sites—Swiss Central Alps, Southern Sierra Nevada, USA, and the slowly-eroding tropical Highlands of Sri Lanka—reveals that weathering is supply-limited in Sri Lanka, where it runs to completion, while kinetically-limited in faster-eroding regions like the Alps and Sierra Nevada. These differences shape ecosystem processes, with nutrient recycling being more intense in supply-limited settings. The research used extensive geochemical and isotopic data, combined with regolith production rates from cosmogenic nuclides and river loads, to derive elemental fluxes through regolith and vegetation. Notably, weathering rates are independent of biomass growth, and a deficit in river solute export suggests alternative pathways for element loss, such as plant uptake or rare flushing events.
A New Species of Lankascincus Greer, 1991 (Reptilia : Scincidae) with an Overview of the L. gansi Group
Researchers identify two distinct populations of the skink species Lankascincus gansi, previously considered a single widespread species. One population thrives at high elevations (1,000 m a.s.l.) in the Rakwana Hills, while the other inhabits lowland rainforests below 300 m a.s.l. The study redefines L. gansi to specifically refer to the lowland population and introduces a new species name for the Rakwana Hills population. Through detailed morphological and morphometric comparisons, the research also synonymizes Lankascincus greeri with L. deignani due to their lack of distinctiveness and shared biogeographical isolation. A key to the genus Lankascincus is provided, offering a comprehensive taxonomic overview.
Leopard activity patterns in a small montane protected area highlight the need for integrated, collaborative landscape conservation
Leopard activity patterns in Horton Plains National Park (HPNP), Sri Lanka, reveal that while females remain loyal to the park's grasslands, males frequently venture outside its boundaries. Camera trapping studies from 2017 and 2018 estimated leopard densities at 10.6 per 100 km² and 15.1 per 100 km², respectively, indicating that HPNP alone cannot sustain these populations without contributions from surrounding landscapes. The research underscores the need for integrated, collaborative conservation efforts to address habitat fragmentation and jurisdictional complexities, ensuring long-term survival of leopards in this montane ecosystem.
Out of India, thrice: diversification of Asian forest scorpions reveals three colonizations of Southeast Asia
A groundbreaking study on Asian forest scorpions challenges the traditional 'Out of India' hypothesis, revealing three distinct colonization events into Southeast Asia during the Cenozoic era. By integrating divergence time estimation, ancestral range analysis, and diversification modeling, researchers traced the evolutionary journey of Heterometrinae scorpions from their African origins through the Cretaceous to their current distribution across South and Southeast Asia. The findings indicate that environmental stresses during the KT mass extinction led to range contractions in southern India and Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, followed by three dispersal events as the Indian subcontinent collided with Eurasia. This study not only refines our understanding of scorpion biogeography but also provides a framework for interpreting the complex dispersal patterns of other taxa in this biodiverse region.
The endangered Daffodil Orchid Ipsea speciosa (Orchidaceae): Population status in unprotected areas in the Central Highlands, Sri Lanka
A recent study reveals that the endangered Daffodil Orchid, Ipsea speciosa, faces significant threats outside protected areas in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands. Populations of this rare terrestrial orchid vary drastically across nine unprotected grasslands, with as few as 2 to 23 flowering plants per site. The research identifies habitat deterioration, intentional burning, vegetation clearing, and the spread of invasive alien species as primary risks, exacerbating the decline of native flora, including I. speciosa. Notably, invasive species are rapidly encroaching, suggesting further population shrinkage if current trends persist. Anthropogenic activities such as illegal medicinal collection and timber plantations also pose serious threats. The study underscores the urgent need for continuous monitoring programs to track I. speciosa populations and mitigate adverse human impacts on Sri Lanka's valuable grasslands.
Density of leopards (Panthera pardus kotiya) in Horton Plains National Park in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
Researchers have determined that the density of leopards (Panthera pardus kotiya) in Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka, is approximately 11.7 adult individuals per 100 km², marking the first robust estimate for this species in Sri Lanka's montane zone. This finding provides critical baseline data for managing the endangered, endemic Sri Lankan leopard population. The study employed remote cameras within a spatially explicit capture-recapture framework to estimate leopard density and distance sampling to assess prey availability. Notably, sambar density was found to be 178 individuals per km² in central grasslands, highlighting these areas as key resources for both sambar and leopards.
Children affected by severe drought in a rural community in the central highlands of Sri Lanka
Severe drought in rural Sri Lanka significantly impacts children's health, with protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) being the most critical issue. A study in Serupitiya, a drought-affected village, found that 12% of school-aged children and 5% of preschoolers suffered from severe acute PEM, with malnutrition increasing significantly with age. Other prevalent health issues included respiratory infections, skin sepsis, poor oral hygiene, and disturbed sleep. Despite these challenges, preventive healthcare strategies effectively prevented PEM and micronutrient deficiencies in under-fives. The study also highlighted increased household stress levels and economic hardships, but noted no mortality among infants or under-fives and a zero drop-out rate for children under 12 years. The research used a community-based cross-sectional approach, including medical examinations, nutritional assessments, and focus group discussions to gather data from 68 households.
Notes on the diet and habitat selection of the Sri Lankan Leopard Panthera pardus kotiya (Mammalia: Felidae) in the central highlands of Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan leopards (Panthera pardus kotiya) exhibit flexible hunting strategies and habitat preferences in the fragmented central highlands, where they target a diverse range of prey—from large species like sambar deer to specialized smaller ones such as porcupines—without relying on domestic animals despite human proximity. Fecal analysis revealed no predation on dogs, suggesting atypical behavior compared to other regions. Leopards favor dense undergrowth and tall grasslands over open forests or pine plantations, likely due to avoidance of human activity. This study highlights the need for landscape-level conservation strategies beyond protected areas, addressing critical knowledge gaps in one of the world's most endangered leopard populations.
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