Biodiversity in Central Highland Wetlands, a World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka

Wetland ecosystems are among the most productive ecosystems that support many kinds of life. They are valuable in terms of hydrology, plant and animal survival, and biodiversity. National Wetland Directory of Sri Lanka describes 62 important wetlands, with their status. The central highland complex of Sri Lanka is a unique ecosystem and the most important catchment area of major rivers. Therefore, it is identified as a super biodiversity hotspot and a world heritage site. The major wetland types in the central highland ecosystem are freshwater marshes, streams, waterfalls, human-made lakes, reservoirs, and springs. In Sri Lanka, most of the threatened species, which are associated with aquatic habitats, are found in the central highlands with very restricted distribution. Habitat deterioration and degradation, encroachments, clearing of vegetation, water pollution, and spread of invasive alien species are the most significant threats to the highland wetlands. Therefore, demarcation of wetlands, protection of buffer zones, increased public awareness, and implementation of good agricultural practices would certainly bring beneficial changes to the ecosystems.