Puttalam Booruwa can survive on this untapped diet

Your story about donkey extinction (Padma Kumari Kankanamge, “‘Puttalam Booruwa’ on verge of extinction”, February 18 ) reminded me that those on the Kalpitiya peninsula have an alternative source of nutrition. Species of Salicornia and Suaeda, known collectively as Omari Keera (Tamil Umari Keerai), grow extensively in the saline soils close to the lagoon. The booruwas often can be seen eating these succulent plants.

Scientists overseas have done extensive research on these halophytes, particularly in ref- erence to their use as sources of food and pharmacological substances. Its oil can be extracted, the residue making for excellent animal fodder. Ferulic acid, found in Salicornia brachiata, can be used to fight leukaemia.

Salicornia (known colloquially in English as “Samphire”) is considered a delicacy by European chefs. Its commercial production is in its infancy, which means that Sri Lanka has a good chance.

However, government interest in these potential money- spinners has been extremely low. The Kalpitiya peninsula is seen merely as a spot for wind farms and tourist resorts.

The powers that be need to understand that “development” does not mean merely large infrastructure projects or super-hotels. Ecological concerns are not necessarily a barrier to development, but should shape the direction taken by development. The Puttalam Booruwa should be thriving on its peculiar diet, not on the verge of extinction. Vinod Moonesinghe Via email