Sri Lanka, Sept. 1 -- A study has revealed that the artificial reef at Hambantota International Port (HIP) is a bustling marine ecosystem, hosting the most diverse population of reef-associated fish in Southern Sri Lanka.

The new findings were published by the Department of Fisheries and Marine Sciences at the Ocean University of Sri Lanka.

The research indicates that the port's reef, which was originally built as a breakwater, now supports a remarkable variety of marine life, surpassing natural sites nearby.

The study found a healthy balance of fish species, particularly herbivores, which play a crucial role in maintaining the reef by preventing algae from overwhelming the corals.

"We now have a scientific baseline that positions HIP...