Trincomalee Pigeon Island coral reef biodiversity: Acropora tables and juvenile blacktip sharks?
What marine conservation zones protect the table coral gardens and resident blacktip reef shark nurseries surrounding Pigeon Island National Park?
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4 Answers from travellers
Pigeon Island National Park, situated 1km off Nilaveli beach in Trincomalee, encompasses two small granitic islands surrounded by extensive fringing coral reefs. The marine sanctuary hosts over 100 species of corals (predominantly tabular Acropora and massive Porites) and 300 reef fish species. The shallow inshore lagoon serves as a protected sanctuary where juvenile Blacktip Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) and green turtles feed safely in chest-deep water. DWC wardens enforce strict non-motorized swimming zones to protect fragile coral tables from boat propeller strikes.
Snorkelers must enter the water from the designated sandy beach channel on the main island to avoid stepping on living coral colonies.
Fishing, shell collecting, and anchoring inside the national park boundary are strictly prohibited under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance.
The best snorkeling visibility (exceeding 20 meters) occurs during the calm east coast summer season from May through September.
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