Sri Lanka's coastline is about 1700 km long. Along the coast is a variety of eco-systems, which include sandy beaches, rocky shores, lagoons, estuaries, mangroves, salt marshes and sand dunes. In the shallow waters of the coastline are found sea-grass beds and coral reefs.

Coral reefs and their resources are important for the fisheries industry, tourism industries and coast protection. Fisheries and tourism industries also provide employment to many. Estuaries and lagoons support fishing activities and they are used as anchorages for fishing boats.

There are 14 true mangroves and there are 12 associated species in Sri Lanka. Very beautiful coral reefs are located in places such as Hikkaduwa, Pasikudah, Trinco and Kalpitiya.

Coastal resources like coral reefs, sand dunes and mangroves are important to prevent coastal erosion. Degradation of these resources severely affect the coastal areas. Mangrove habitats are located within the lagoons and estuaries. For example, Madutank, Puttalam lagoon etc. We should protect coastal resources for our next generation.

Coral reef	Estuary
Lagoon	Mangrove
Sandy beach	Sand dune