Sri Lankan Ornamental Aquatic Plants

About Sri Lankan Ornamental aquatic plant Industry

Sri Lanka’s ornamental aquatic plant industry in 2025 is gaining momentum as a niche export sector, with growing international demand and strategic government support.

Sri Lanka has emerged as a prominent player in the global ornamental fish trade, ranking among the top exporters worldwide. The island nation's tropical climate, abundant freshwater resources, and rich biodiversity provide ideal conditions for breeding a wide variety of ornamental fish species. Global demand for aquascaping plants is rising, especially in Europe, Japan, and North America, where aquarium hobbyists and interior designers seek exotic, high-quality aquatic flora. Sri Lanka’s tropical climate and biodiversity offer ideal conditions for cultivating a wide range of aquatic plants, including Anubias, Cryptocoryne, Echinodorus, and Ludwigia species.

Sri Lanka’s ornamental aquatic plant industry is a specialized segment within the broader ornamental fish and aquaculture sector. It includes the cultivation and export of aquatic plants used in aquariums, aquascaping, and water gardens. While ornamental fish dominate the aquatic export portfolio, aquatic plants are emerging as a high-margin niche, especially for small and medium-scale cultivators. Exporters are increasingly adopting tissue culture and eco-friendly packaging to meet phytosanitary standards and reduce environmental impact.

With rising global demand for disease-resistant and genetically stable aquatic plant varieties, Sri Lanka is focusing on health-certified propagation and selective breeding to preserve native traits while meeting export standards.