Fauna

Taxonomic research on the faunal groups of Sri Lanka has undergone tremendous growth since the 1990s, resulting in the discovery and scientific description of several new species. This publication is intended to collate and present updated information on the status of taxonomy, research and conservation of different groups of fauna in Sri Lanka in order to facilitate and enhance research, education, awareness and conservation activities.

The Lunama and Kalametiya lagoons are located on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka. Part of the Dry Zone of the country, their importance led to their being designated in 1984 as a Sanctuary under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. The objective of this study was to compile a comprehensive set of baseline data on biodiversity in the Lunama-Kalametiya wetland system in order to facilitate management of this protected area.

It is widely acknowledged that Nepal is one of the rich biological treasure chests of South Asia. There are several "hotspots" of biodiversity - areas of high species richness and species diversity, as well as high levels of rare, endangered and endemic species of plants and animals. Efforts towards developing sustainability generally demand an in-depth understanding of the diverse life-forms in nature and their inter-dependence for survival and growth.