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#Conservation
Mongabay
Mongabay
2w ago 14 views

After a hiatus, an endemic plant bursts into life in Sri Lanka’s central hills

Sri Lanka's endemic Strobilanthes shrubs have burst into synchronized bloom, drawing thousands of visitors. This phenomenon matters as it highlights ecological adaptations and raises concerns about environmental impacts from increased tourism.
After a hiatus, an endemic plant bursts into life in Sri Lanka’s central hills
A What happened
In Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, the endemic Strobilanthes shrubs, or nelu, have begun their rare synchronized blooming, a spectacle that occurs every 4-12 years. This event draws thousands of visitors to Horton Plains, where the vibrant colors of the flowers create a breathtaking landscape. The mass flowering is an evolutionary adaptation that overwhelms seed predators and attracts pollinators, enhancing the plants' reproductive success. However, the surge in tourism poses significant risks to the delicate montane ecosystem, including soil compaction, littering, and disturbance to wildlife. Conservationists are concerned about the potential for invasive species to colonize areas left vacant after the nelu die-off, which could threaten future blooms. The phenomenon not only showcases the unique biodiversity of Sri Lanka but also underscores the need for effective visitor management and conservation efforts to protect this natural wonder.

Key insights

  • 1

    Synchronized Blooming

    Nelu shrubs flower together, enhancing seed survival.

  • 2

    Tourism Impact

    Increased visitors risk damaging fragile ecosystems.

  • 3

    Invasive Species Threat

    Post-bloom, invasive plants may disrupt future cycles.

Takeaways

The mass flowering of nelu in Sri Lanka is a remarkable ecological event that highlights both the beauty of nature and the challenges posed by human activity. Effective conservation strategies are essential to ensure the survival of these unique plants and their ecosystem.