The Caucus on Climate Parliament of Sri Lanka has raised concerns over the growing challenges of protecting Sri Lanka’s marine and amphibian biodiversity amid the impacts of El Niño and La Niña climate phenomena.

The issue was discussed at a forum meeting held within the Parliamentary complex under the co-chairmanship of Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and Member of Parliament Prof. L.M. Abeywickrama.

During the interactive meeting, participants examined the effects of climate change, particularly El Niño conditions, on marine ecosystems, coastal regions, biodiversity and the livelihoods of coastal communities, according to the Department of Communication of Parliament.

Officials warned that rising sea temperatures are contributing to coral bleaching, changes in fish migration patterns, harmful algal blooms, the formation of low-oxygen “dead zones” and increased instability in aquatic ecosystems.

The Caucus also discussed the impact of prolonged droughts, which can lower river water levels and allow seawater intrusion into freshwater systems, posing risks to drinking water supplies. Environmental changes were also identified as a threat to the fisheries and tourism sectors, with potential economic consequences.

Representatives highlighted the role of the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Coast Conservation Department and other agencies in safeguarding marine resources. The Caucus on Climate emphasized the need for stronger coordination among these institutions.

To improve resilience against future El Niño events, participants stressed the importance of strengthening ocean monitoring systems, implementing ecosystem restoration programmes, promoting science-based policymaking and developing an integrated national ocean management plan.

The meeting further underscored the vulnerability of amphibian species to climate change. Changes in rainfall patterns, increasing drought conditions and rising temperatures could threaten the habitats, breeding cycles and survival of many amphibians, including frog species, officials noted. Such impacts could also disrupt ecological balance.

The meeting was attended by Members of Parliament, officials from the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), researchers and representatives of civil society organizations.