The Importance of Protecting Orangutans – By Nadeeka – eLanka Orangutans, one of the most intelligent and charismatic species on Earth, are critically endangered and face an uncertain future due to human activities. These great apes, whose name means “person of the forest” in Malay, inhabit the tropical rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. They are not just a vital part of the ecosystem but also serve as a powerful symbol of conservation and environmental stewardship. Protecting orangutans is not just an ethical obligation but a critical step toward preserving biodiversity and the health of our planet. The orangutan’s role in the ecosystem is irreplaceable. These arboreal creatures act as natural gardeners of the rainforest, dispersing seeds and maintaining the health and regeneration of their forest habitats. The rainforests they inhabit are among the oldest and most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, providing oxygen, stabilizing the climate, and hosting countless other species. ...

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Why We Need to Protect Bees: Guardians of Our Ecosystem – by Nadeeka – eLanka Bees are an integral part of our planet’s delicate balance, playing a critical role in sustaining life as we know it. Often overlooked in their significance, bees are essential to pollination, biodiversity, and the global food chain. Without their diligent work, ecosystems would crumble, affecting countless plant and animal species, including humans. Pollination, the process by which plants reproduce, is largely driven by bees. These remarkable creatures transfer pollen from flower to flower, ensuring the growth of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. More than three-quarters of the world’s crops depend on pollinators like bees. This means that a vast majority of the food we consume is directly tied to their survival. The absence of bees would lead to a drastic decline in crop yields, causing global food shortages and skyrocketing prices. Staple foods such as ...

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Knuckles Mountain Range: A Hidden Gem of Sri Lanka’s Natural Heritage – By Bhanuka – eLanka The Knuckles Mountain Range, located in central Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking beauty and biodiversity. Named for its resemblance to a clenched fist, the Knuckles Range is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and eco-tourists seeking to explore one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. This article will take you on a journey through the splendor of Knuckles Mountain, highlighting its unique features, rich biodiversity, and why it should be on every traveler’s bucket list. The Unique Geography of the Knuckles Mountain Range The Knuckles Mountain Range spans approximately 234 square kilometers, covering parts of the Matale and Kandy districts. The area features a unique combination of rugged mountain peaks, deep valleys, and dense forests. The mountains rise over 1,800 meters above sea level, providing ...

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Celebrating Sri Lanka’s Water Heritage on World Water Day-by Kalani-eLanka March 22nd marks World Water Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of water resources worldwide. In celebrating this vital natural resource, we turn our attention to Sri Lanka, an island nation blessed with abundant water sources that play a crucial role in its cultural, environmental, and economic landscapes. In 2024, World Water Day resonates with the theme “Leveraging Water for Peace,” emphasizing the transformative power of water as a catalyst for cooperation, harmony, and conflict resolution.  Water holds profound cultural significance in Sri Lanka, woven intricately into the fabric of everyday life and religious practices. The nation’s ancient hydraulic civilization, exemplified by the remarkable feats of engineering such as the ancient reservoirs and irrigation systems, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of its ancestors in harnessing and ...

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Celebrating World Wildlife Day in Sri Lanka-by Kalani-eLanka Image Source:Pixabay As Sri Lanka joins the global community in celebrating World Wildlife Day on March 3rd, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the island nation’s rich biodiversity and the importance of preserving it for future generations. From majestic elephants and elusive leopards to colorful birds and diverse marine life, Sri Lanka boasts an extraordinary array of wildlife that contributes to its ecological, cultural, and economic well-being. Situated at the crossroads of biodiversity hotspots, Sri Lanka is home to an astonishing variety of flora and fauna. Its tropical rainforests, lush wetlands, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs provide habitats for thousands of species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. However, rapid urbanization, habitat loss, poaching, and climate change pose significant threats to this precious natural heritage. ...

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