The objective focuses on assessing the diversity of aquatic fauna species inhabiting the afforested and replanted mangrove areas. The researchers conducted surveys and sampling to identify and quantify various aquatic organisms, including fish, crustaceans, mollusc, and other invertebrates, present in those mangrove habitats in similar sites as floral sampling conducted.

By documenting aquatic fauna diversity, the study aims to evaluate the ecological value and habitat suitability of planted mangrove areas for supporting diverse aquatic communities and promoting ecosystem health. Of the  crustaceans species recorded, Mud crab (Scylla serrata), Giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) and (Metapenaeus elegans) are economically important species and fishermen harvest them when the mangrove substratum is covered with water.   

Thirteen gastropod mollusc species in each were recorded from the mangrove substratum in the plantation sites at the western and eastern sites. In addition to gastropod mollusc, seven bivalve mollusc species have also been reported from the mangrove planting sites on the east and west coasts.

The findings generated from this research can inform conservation and management strategies aimed at maximizing the environmental benefits of mangrove restoration and afforestation efforts.