Doona Ovalifolia: The Rare and Resilient Pini Beraliya of Sri Lanka – By Nadeeka – eLanka
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Sri Lanka is home to an incredible diversity of plant species, many of which are unique to the island’s wet-zone forests. Among these, the Doona ovalifolia, commonly known as Pini Beraliya, stands out due to its ecological significance, rich history, and endangered status. This majestic tree is a part of the island’s rich biodiversity and plays a crucial role in its forest ecosystems. However, it faces significant threats that require urgent conservation efforts.
Ecological Importance of the Pini Beraliya Tree
The Doona ovalifolia is native to Sri Lanka’s wet-zone forests, particularly in areas like the Sinharaja Rainforest and the Kalutara District, where the thick, dense forests provide shelter to an extraordinary array of flora and fauna. The unique ecosystems of these forests are yet to be fully explored, with scientists continually discovering new plant and animal species. Forests such as these are a treasure trove of biodiversity, but also fragile ecosystems that require significant protection.
The Pini Beraliya tree is a keystone species in its environment, growing up to 35 meters tall with a thick, sturdy trunk and broad, glossy leaves. Its canopy offers vital shade to the forest floor, allowing other plant species to thrive, while its root system helps stabilize soil in areas prone to heavy rains and landslides. Additionally, the tree produces aromatic resin, traditionally used for medicinal purposes in Sri Lankan culture.
Recent Rediscovery: From ‘Extinct in the Wild’ to ‘Critically Endangered’
In recent years, there have been remarkable discoveries regarding Pini Beraliya. After being listed as “Extinct in the Wild” in the 2012 National Red Data List, due to its absence in natural habitats for over 100 years, it was rediscovered in the Ratnapura and Kalutara Districts. This species, originally described by British botanist Henry Thwaites in 1864, was believed lost until a team of researchers, including Himesh Dilruwan Jayasinghe, Peshala Pasan Karunaratne, and Dilum Prabhath Samarasinghe, made an incredible discovery in the Kelinkanda Gramaseva Domain of Kalutara.
Their find was significant, as Pini Beraliya had not been recorded in the wild since 1887. In 2020, the conservation status of this species was revised to ‘Critically Endangered’ after its discovery in the wild for the first time in over a century. However, despite this milestone, the battle to protect this rare tree is far from over.
Botanical Classification and Characteristics
Scientifically classified as Shorea ovalifolia, the Pini Beraliya belongs to the Dipterocarpaceae family, a group of large, resin-producing trees found throughout Southeast Asia. It produces beautiful white flowers with five petals, which bloom once a year. The bright yellow stamens of the flower make it a striking sight in the forests where it grows. As part of the Dipterocarpaceae family, it shares characteristics with other large, towering tropical trees that play essential roles in their environments.
Conservation Challenges: Protecting the Pini Beraliya
While the rediscovery of Pini Beraliya is a positive step, conservationists are warning that without immediate protection, this species could again face extinction. The areas where the plant was found are not within protected zones, leaving them vulnerable to deforestation, habitat destruction, and encroachment from nearby plantations.
One of the significant threats facing Pini Beraliya is the expansion of tea and rubber plantations, particularly in the Kalutara District. These plantations, combined with human habitation, have cleared large swathes of the forest, dramatically reducing the natural habitat available for species like Pini Beraliya.
Strict conservation measures need to be implemented to protect the remaining populations of the Pini Beraliya tree. Currently, the tree is protected under Sri Lanka’s Fauna and Flora Protection Act (Amendment) No. 22 of 2009, which prohibits harming or trading the plant in any form, whether from the wild or private property. However, this law must be enforced more rigorously, especially in areas like Kelinkanda and Ratnapura, where the tree has been recently rediscovered.
Future Prospects for Pini Beraliya
Looking forward, there is hope that ongoing research and conservation efforts will help secure a brighter future for the Pini Beraliya. Scientists like Jayasinghe, Karunaratne, and Samarasinghe continue their work, documenting and protecting this species in collaboration with environmental organizations and local authorities.
Immediate steps should include the designation of protected areas around the discovered populations of the tree to prevent further destruction of its habitat. Public awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in educating local communities about the importance of preserving this unique tree. By involving local stakeholders and enforcing conservation laws, Sri Lanka can ensure that this majestic species remains a part of its rich natural heritage.
Conclusion
Doona ovalifolia, or Pini Beraliya, represents not only the resilience of Sri Lanka’s forests but also the delicate balance between nature and human development. Its journey from “extinct in the wild” to critically endangered highlights the importance of both scientific research and conservation efforts. To protect the future of Pini Beraliya, Sri Lanka must take swift action to safeguard the few remaining trees and ensure that this species continues to thrive in the wild for future generations to appreciate.
