International Research Conference of UWU-2021

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Browsing International Research Conference of UWU-2021 by Subject "Aquaculture and Fisheries"

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    An Analysis of Supply Chain of Small-Scale Fisheries in Loggal Oya Reservoir in Badulla, Sri Lank
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Dissanayake, D.M.W.C.J.; Wikramaratne, I.U.; Deyshappriya, N.P.R.; Jayasinghe, A.K.G.R.M.M.Y.
    Loggal Oya Reservoir is one of the minor perennial tank located in Badulla District, which has higher production rate compared to other minor perennial tanks in the area. However, the supply chain performance, fisheries activities and livelihood condition are not up to the standard level. The current study attempts to recognize the present condition of the fisheries supply chain along with its main stakeholders and their selected socio-economic characteristics. Moreover, the study also focuses on recognizing the constrains and opportunities related to small scale inland fishery supply chain in Loggal oya reservoir. Primary data were collected using a questionnaire from 59 individuals and while qualitative data was collected through Key Informat Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Additionally, secondary data from various source have also been used and mainly descriptive analysis was employed to accomplish the objectives of the study. Specifically, BCG Matrix, SWOT analysis and Fishbone analysis were used to analyze the supply chain while the Warwick – Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale were used to examine the Wellbeing of the stakeholders. The study reveals that the Loggal Oya fishery supply chain consists of four main stakeholder groups such as fishermen, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers. It is observed that 64% fishermen sell their catch to wholesalers, whereas 34% directly sell their catch to consumers and 2% of the fishermen sell their catch to small scale value added producers. In contrast, the study reveals that 60% wholesalers sell their fish to retailers, while 40% sell and transport their fish catch to local markets located in Badulla and Mahiyangana.100% retailers directly sell their fish to consumers. The majority of the stakeholders had a moderate wellbeing in the study area. The analysis further highlighted constrains such as depletion of fish stock, lack of financial availability, lack of training, knowledge and new technologies, and lack of infrastructure facilities in the fisheries supply chain in Loggal oya reservoir. The study emphasizes the requirement of providing appropriate trainings, credit facilities and funds, infrastructure facilities and inputs, improve market facilities, enhance security around the lake and awareness programs as remedies to the recognized constrains. Moreover, the study also recommends promoting value- added production based on fish in order to improve the supply chain and livelihood condition of the stakeholder. Keywords: Supply chain analysis; Small-scale fisheries; Inland fishery; Wellbeing
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    Applicability of Brown Seaweed Species (Sargassum crassifolium) for Treating Lobster Farm Wastewater
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Pirashanthy, K.; Rajapaksha, R.M.G.N.; Bambaranda, B.V.A.S.M.; Nirooparaj, B.; Chirapart, A.
    Wastewater generation in aquaculture farms, including all lobster culture practices is a serious issue in the industry. The present study was carried out at lobster farm located at Northern Province in Sri Lanka. Approximately 756,000 L of wastewater is generated on this farm annually and discharges wastewater without proper treatment to the natural environment. The wastewater discharged from lobster farm consists of organic and inorganic chemical components that can be caused potential environmental problems. Present study focused to investigate applicability of Brown seaweed Sargassum crassifolium biomass to efficient removal of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous) from the lobster farm wastewater. The Sargassum crassifolium is an abundant species in Northern Province, Sri Lanka. Seaweed biomass optimization was performed using three different seaweed biomasses, viz 20 g, 30 g and 40 g and 20 g (1 g L-1) identified as the efficient seaweed biomass. Wastewater initial physicochemical parameters pH (7.9 ± 0.02), Temperature (29 ± 0.04 ⁰ C), Salinity (36 ± 0.03 ppt), Dissolved Oxygen (3.58 ± 0.02 mg L-1), Biological Oxygen Demand (115 ± 0.05 mg L-1), Ammonia (1.37 ± 0.01mg L-1), Nitrite (0.143 ± 0.00 mgL-1), Nitrate (0.243 ± 0.01 mg L-1) and Phosphate (4.760 ± 0.02 mg L-1) were analyzed using the standard methods. Then wastewaters were collected from the farm and transferred to six glass tanks of 50 L capacity each. The seaweed was used at 1 g L-1 density in each tank except in the control tank. Complete randomized design was used to the experiment. Three replicates were used. Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate and Phosphate were analyzed once in three days from beginning to the end of the treatment period (28 days) to investigate the initial wastewater qualities and quality changes after Phycoremidiation. After phycoremidiation physiochemical parameters pH (7.4 ± 0.06), Temperature (29 ± 0.03 ⁰ C), Salinity (36 ± 0.05 ppt), Dissolved Oxygen (5.74 ± 0.04 mg L- 1), Biological Oxygen Demand (95 ± 0.03 mg L-1) were analyzed in wastewater. Sargassum crassifolium removed 1.19 ± 0.34 mg L-1 of Ammonia, 0.12 ± 0.03 mg L-1 of Nitrite, 0.14 ± 0.04 mg L-1 of Nitrate and 2.40 ± 0.72 mg L-1 of Phosphate. Nutrient removal amounts were significantly differed (P<0.05) between control and treatment tank. The weight gains Sargassum crassifolium during the study period was of 8.7 g thus, the seaweed has been utilized the nutrients present in the discharged waste waters. The results of the study concluded that the nitrogen and phosphorus in the lobster farm waste waters, can be effectively removed through Sargassum crassifolium. Keywords: Lobster, Sargassum crassifolium, Seaweed, Phycoremidiation
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    Cetacean Diversity, Encounter Rates, and Behavior in Whale-Watching Waters off Southern Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Sankalpa, D.M.R.; Thilakarathne, E.P.D.N.; Li, Songhai; Kumarasinghe, C.P.
    Data on the diversity, encounter rates, and behavior of cetaceans is vital to the conservation and the management of whale-watching activities. The southern coast of Sri Lanka is distinguished with a continental shelf, extremely steep slope, and deep submarine canyons. Though cetaceans are known to be abundant in these waters, there is a dearth of up-to-date data pertaining to the relative abundance, and species occurring in the whale-watching waters off Mirissa. Data collected during rapid boat-based cetacean surveys following the random line transects from January to May 2017 were analyzed to investigate the diversity, encounter rates, and behavior of cetaceans in the waters off Mirissa, covering a total of 788.9 km2 survey area. During the 55 survey days, nine species were recorded: Balaenoptera musculus, Balaenoptera omurai, Balaenoptera edeni, Stenella longirostris, Physeter macrocephalus, Tursiops truncates, Globicephala macrorhynchus, Peponocephala electra, and Orcinus orca. The Simpson diversity index for the entire study area was 0.5 and the encounter rate for the entire study area was 16.5 sightings per 100 km. Traveling and foraging behavioral states were frequently observed in large whales while socializing was observed in small toothed whales and the dolphins in the present study. Additionally, it is noteworthy that the temporal changes of the sightings of small toothed whales and the large whales were inverse, reflecting sequential use of the Mirissa waters by different species to reduce interspecies competition. However, the study also found differential regional preferences among cetaceans as common bottlenose and spinner dolphins being sighted mostly in inshore waters (< 500 m isobaths), while large whales (blue whales and sperm whales) being more frequently sighted along the continental slope (> 500 m isobaths). It was also observed that blue whales were feeding along the outer shelf and high slope waters where a major shipping route is crossing. This study further recommends that implication of proper management strategies for conservation and sustainable whale-watching activities are needed. Keywords: cetaceans; encounter rates; diversity; Sri Lanka; diversity index
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    Effect of Aquaponic System in Increased Stocking Densities of Guppy Fish (Poecilia reticulata) at Grow-out Phase One
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Aththanayake, A.M.M.B.; Liyanage, N.P.P.; Bambaranda, B.V.A.S.M.; Silva, S.S.U.
    Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is one of the widely marketed ornamental fish. Fry rearing density recommended by NAQDA, Sri Lanka for grow-out phase one was 20 fish ft-2. However, grow-out farmers are using different stocking densities. Production efficiency of existing facilities can be enhanced by increasing the recommended stocking densities. Therefore, identifying possibility of enhancing stocking density is vital for increasing production. Current study was focused to improve the efficiency of grow-out rearing of Guppy by incorporating aquaponic system using water spinach (Ipomea aquatica). Guppy juveniles with mean body size of 2.63±0.06 cm were stocked in similar glass tanks at three different stocking densities as 20 fish ft-2 (T1), 25 fish ft-2 (T2), and 30 fish ft-2 (T3), with three replicates. NAQDA recommended stocking density was used in T1 and increased densities were used in T2 and T3. Fish were fed three times a day with commercial larval rearing feed at 10% of their mean body weight. A mixture of sterilized brick-lets and coconut coir were used as media for the grow bed with 10.6 cm thickness. Six plants of same size and age were introduced to each aquaponic system. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen level, nitrate, nitrite, and phosphate concentrations were tested. Growth performance was determined using Mean Length Gain (MLG), Specific Growth Rate (SGR), Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), and condition factor (K). Collected data were subjected to one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s pairwise comparison at a significance level of p < 0.05, using Minitab 17 software. T3 showed significantly lowest MLG and SGR, whilst T1 showed the highest. However, T1 and T2 did not show significant difference. Significantly highest FCR was observed in T3. Condition factor did not show significant difference and no mortality was observed. Nitrate, nitrite concentrations were significantly high in T3 whilst other parameters did not vary significantly among treatments. According to the results obtained, the medium stocking density of 25 fish ft-2 can be suggested as the optimum stocking density for guppy grow-out phase one for aquaponic coupled rearing facilities as it allows medium level stocking density while obtaining satisfactory growth and maintaining favorable water quality. Keywords: Aquaculture; Aquaponics; Fish growth performance; Ornamental fish
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    The Effect of Coriandrum Sativum as Feed Additives on Growth Performance, Immunity and Disease Resistance of Southern Platy Fish (Xiphophorus Maculatus)
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Bowalage, B.W.G.S. L.; Coswatte, A.C.W.W.M.C.L.K.; De Silva, D.P.N.
    Ornamental fish production and trade is a profitable alternative in the aquaculture industry. Nutrition is one of the key factors to obtain a higher productivity while maintain immunity of ornamental fishes. These fishes live in an environment surrounded by stress factors. Increasing immunity via feed additives may help them to thrive such stressors. Therefore, this study was carried out to assess the effect of coriander as feed additives and immune enhancers, on growth performance, immunity and disease resistance of southern platy fish (Xiphophorus maculatus). Sixty healthy platy fish, of 2 months old with an average weight of 0.17 ± 0.01 g were used in the experiment. Fish were fed with coriander incorporated commercially available feed for one month. The experiment was triplicated and controls were also maintained without incorporating coriander to commercially available feed. The weight gain, length and specific growth rate (SGR) were measured. The infection trial was carried out using Aeromonas hydrophila. Immune response and disease resistance of fish were determined by analyzing white blood cell (WBC) count. Results revealed that the, mean length and SGR obtained from coriander fed fish were significantly higher than the control (p<0.05). The fish fed with Coriander incorporated feed obtained 20% of neutrophil count while fish fed without coriander incorporated feed obtained 10% of neutrophil count. In conclusion, there was a positive effect on disease resistance and immunity by the coriander incorporated feed on southern platy fishes and significant length and weight gain indicated the feasibility of using coriander as feed additives and immune enhancers in aquaculture. Keywords: Coriandrum sativum; Disease Resistance; Innate Immunity; Ornamental fish; Specific Growth Rate; White Blood Cell
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    Extraction of Bone Powder from Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) and Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) Bones & Analyse their Mineral Conten
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Nimalsiri, O.R.G.; Mihiran, B.D.M.
    Fishbones are one of the main sources of Calcium and other minerals. During fish processing, nearly 30-60% of fish body weight discard as head, skin, viscera, backbones, and fins. The objective of the present study was to the extraction of bone powder from Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) and Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) bones & analysis their mineral contents. Yellowfin Tuna and Swordfish bones were collected from a local fish processing company. Frozen bones were thawed for 16 hours at 20°C to remove ice. Large flesh parts were removed from bones and cut into 10cm size pieces and the remaining minor flesh particles were removed by soaking in 2M NaOH for 24 hours at room temperature. Bones were first washed with tap water to remove fat, dissolved protein, aroma, and to remove microorganisms bones were kept in 0.1% citric acid (bone material to citric acid ratio of 1:5 (w/v) for 0.5 h) and 5% H2O2 (bone material to H2O2 ratio of 1:5 (w/v), twice for 1 h) respectively. Further washed with tap water, dried, and grounded. Moisture and ash contents were analyzed by moisture meter (KERN, DBS60-3) at 105°C and Muffle Furnace (Labtech, LEP-P Type) at 550 °C for 16 hours respectively. Yellowfin tuna bone powder has 1.44% ash and 6.57% moisture content and Swordfish bone powder have 1.59% ash content and 6.35% moisture content respectively. P percentage was measured by Spectrophotometric Vanado Molybolate Method and Ca and other minerals were analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry after dry ashing. Dried Yellowfin tuna bone powder has Ca-15.5±0.45%, P- 8.0±0.36%, Zn-8.3±0.4mg/kg, Fe-46.0±0.20mg/kg, Mn -7.3±0.46 mg/kg, Na-1.5±0.06%, Mg- 0.25±0.03%, K-357±1.73mg/kg. Further, dried Swordfish bone powder has Ca-13.2±0.25%, P- 7.8±0.25%, Zn-8.0±0.15mg/kg, Fe-10.7±0.25mg/kg,Mn-2.0±0.17mg/kg,Na-1.25±0.02%,Mg- 0.25±0.03%,K-454±2.65mg/kg. The results of the present study shows Ca:P of the yellowfin tuna and sword fishbone powder nearly similar to the Ca:P of the human bones(2:1). The present study concludes that Yellowfin tuna and Swordfish bone powder are rich in Ca, P, and other microelements and can be used for the preparation of inexpensive and environmentally friendly value-added products such as Calcium tablets and diet supplements. Keywords: Fish waste; Value-added products; Bone powder; Economy
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    Fisheries Status of Valaichchenai Lagoon, Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Naganathan, Z.; Wickramaratne, I.U.
    Valaichchenai lagoon is one of the major inland fishery sources in the Batticaloa district where productivity has been estimated approximately 3482.21 kg ha-1 yr-1. However, status of fishery information were lacking in literature. Therefore, this study aimed to fulfil this research gap. Piolet survey was conducted, then as primary data, including fishing practices, species, marketing system and supply chain, catch per unit effort, sustainable fishery constraints, and environmental impacts of fishing & related activities were collected using a questionnaire from 242 individuals, group and individual interviews, and direct field observation from January to May 2021. Secondary data were obtained from Fisheries Department of Batticaloa and journal articles. Data were statistically analyzed. SWOT analysis & Fish Bone analysis were also performed. The study revealed that a total of 12 types of fishing gears and the outrigger lagoon canoes (Thoni) were used for fishing. Total number of 38 species were identified during study period. Higher percentage of fishermen sell their harvest to intermediate vendors and a very small percentage, directly sell fish catch to final consumers. Supply chain includes both local and foreign market interventions. Fishermen caught 0.009 to 0.027 kg/net square meter/day, and 0.75 to 3.1 kg/day using a gill net and cast net, respectively, on average. Regulations for mesh sizes and certain unauthorized activities, licensing system, and seabass cage culture for sustainable fisheries have been imposed in Valaichchenai lagoon, but there were no species/size limitations, off-season/time limitations with prevailing irresponsible fishing (IUU), seagrass/benthic environment destruction, shrimp farm effluent discharge, waste disposal from cage cultures, fishing harbor & adjacent boat repairing centers, oil spilling from canoes/boat and, sound pollution issues. It can be suggested that introducing co- management system, implementing voluntary code of conduct, proper rules & regulations, frequent monitoring, conducting awareness and training programmes for Valaichchenai lagoon fishery sustainability. Keywords: Valaichchenai lagoon; Fishery sustainability; Catch per unit effort; Supply chain; Co- management.
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    Growth Performance of Panulirus ornatus (Spiny lobster) with Three Different Feeds in Indoor Culture in Jaffna, Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Jenitha, J.; Athula, J.A.; Nirooparaj, B.
    Indoor fattening practices of Panulirus ornatus (spiny lobsters) operated in Jaffna, Sri Lanka practicing with typical trash fish feeding. Effect of growth was evaluated with different feeds and water quality of P. ornatus culture and suggest a proper feed among the aquafarmers for P.ornatus due to unaware about feeds. Study entailed Completely Randomized Design with three different feeds (trash fish, crab meat, and clam flesh) and three replicates, 45 wild-caught P. ornatus of mean body weight 440.91 ± 29.11 g mean carapace length 8.00 ± 0.37 cm were stocked at the rate of two per m2, cultured for 11 weeks, fresh chopped flesh fed at optimum rate of 5% of body. Water quality including temperature, pH, salinity, Dissolved Oxygen, nitrate, nitrite and total ammonia and growth performance indicators of Average Daily Weight gain (ADW), Average Daily Length gain (ADL), Specific Growth Rate (SGR), Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) and survival rate were examined and proximate analysis was done. P. ornatus had grown best on clams which containing highest crude protein 70.26 ± 13.26% lowest fat 0.60 ± 0.18%, indicating highest SGR as 0.19 ± 0.02% where trash fish and crab fed lobsters showed lowest SGR 0.16 ± 0.02% and 0.13 ± 0.04% with the crude protein, and fat levels of 18.13 ± 4.64%, 8.58 ± 1.09% and 10.66 ± 1.77%, 1.64 ± 0.22% respectively. Highest ADW was recorded from clam fed lobsters as 0.94 ± 0.11, 0.77 ± 0.11 and 0.58 ± 0.15 g day−1 for lobsters fed with trash fish and crabs respectively. Lowest FCR of 1.42 ± 0.05 showed with clam fed lobsters, crab and trash fish fed lobsters showed relatively high FCR indicating 2.76 ± 1.37, 1.63 ± 0.37 respectively. Growth significantly (P < 0.05) affected by water quality and maximum growth occurred at 29 ˗ 30°C temperature, 0.01 ˗ 0.02 mg Lˉ1 of Ammonia, 6.5 ˗ 6.9 mg Lˉ1 of the Dissolved Oxygen levels. Survival rate was similar as 100% in all treatments. Findings show that spiny lobsters grow well when fed clams high in protein and lowest fat indicating suitability in lobster farming industry. Keywords: Panulirus ornatus; SGR; Growth performance
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    Impact of Corona Virus Disease 2019 on Aquaculture and Inland Fisheries Sector with Special Reference to Trincomalee District in Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Lakshika, R.; Deyshappriya, N.P.R.; Athula, J.A.
    Corona virus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease spreaded rapidly across the borders creating pathetic health, economic and social impacts on each and every country in the world. In fact, aquaculture and inland fisheries is one of the industries which has been affected drastically. COVID-19 first time recorded in 2020 in Sri Lanka. This study aims to analyze the impacts of COVID-19 pandemic situation on aquaculture and inland fisheries sector in Trincomalee district focusing on the impacts on the inland capture fisheries and aquaculture community along with production dynamic during the period of 2019 and 2020. Mixed method and Purposive and stratified random sampling techniques have been employed as major methods of sampling during the data collection where a total of 155 individuals who are engaging in aquaculture and inland capture fisheries activities operated under the monitoring of National Aquaculture Development Authority in seven Divisional Secretariat divisions; Kuchchaveli, Morawewa, Trincomalee Town and Gravets, Thambalagamuwa, Kinniya, Muthur, Kanthale located in Trincomalee district. Pre- tested and structured questionnaire was used to collect the primary data from respondents while secondary data were collected from Trincomalee National Aquaculture Development Authority and mainly descriptive analysis was applied by using Microsoft excel to compare the situation before and during COVID-19 in order to accomplish the objectives of the study. The results indicated that Trincomalee district inland fisheries total production was 9% lower in 2020 with compare to the 2019. Apart from that, the study also confirmed the livelihood, education, health & food security, well-being, and happiness of aquaculture and inland fisheries community have been severely affected by the COVID-19, especially during lockdown period. Hence, this study emphasizes the necessity of providing livelihood assistance to such affected household in order to enhance their living standard and need to provide Advice with business continuity planning and Advice on how to prevent infections while maintaining business operations. Keywords: COVID-19; Aquaculture; Inland fisheries; Livelihood; Socio-economic impacts
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    Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Fish Consumption Patterns in Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Kapuge, H.K.D.T.; Coswatte, A.C.W.W.M.C.L.K.; Liyanage, N.P.P.; Deyshappriya, N.P.R.
    The COVID-19 which was originated in Wuhan, China has been rapidly spreading across the globe and consequently the World Health Organization has announced a global emergency condition. The pandemic has drastically changed the dietary and lifestyle patterns of people and specifically consumption of freshwater fish and sea food has been considerably reduced in terms of frequency and level of consumption. The aim of this study was to examine the food fish consumption patterns, production of inland food fish and price variation of fish before and during the period of the COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. A hybrid survey (both online and physical) was carried out in 13 districts and collected primary data from 711 respondents. The Wilcoxon test was employed to compare the selected variables before and during the COVID-19 using in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 25). The study found inland fish consumption has increased by 13.81% as frequently consuming fish type during COVID-19 pandemic when comparing before COVID-19. Moreover, type of fish, processing methods of fish, fish purchasing places, affordability to buy fish per month, fish purchasing frequency, fish consumption frequency and the amount of fish consumed by family per month were also analyzed and there was significant difference (p<0.05) during the pandemic, compared to before 13th march 2020. Moreover, it was examined 78% of the consumers were aware of the process of cleaning, storage and preparation and also 58.74% of them have changed their pre COVID cleaning and storage process during COVID-19 period. The average retail food fish price and inland fish production was increased at the end of the lockdown period after first wave of COVID- 19 pandemic from May 2020 when compared to year 2019. The study identified the differences of the pattern of fish consumption; fish consumption frequency, preference for freshwater food fish during COVID-19 pandemic compared to before COVID-19 pandemic. Keywords: COVID-19; Protein; Dietary pattern; Food price; Fish production
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    Investigation of Disease Incidence and Management Practices to Build a Database to Fill the Knowledge Gap of Ornamental Fish Farmers in Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Dinushika, M.P.G.; Dias, P.C.B.; Sampath, J.K.H.; De Silva, D.P.N.
    The freshwater ornamental fish industry is one of the economically important, home entertainment industry in the world. During the last few decades, the ornamental fish industry in Sri Lanka has become one of the highest potential exporters in the global market. However, fish diseases are one of the major constraints to the failure of the ornamental industry. To avoid economic losses and to prevent disease outbreaks proper identification and diagnosis of fish diseases are crucial. Hence, this study was aimed to evaluate the present status of farmer’s knowledge of fish disease; management measures to avoid disease outbreaks and prevalence of fish diseases with seasonal and regional variation in the freshwater ornamental fish industry. Sixty farmers cultivating various ornamental fish were selected using stratified and simple random sampling techniques from the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) website. Data were collected using a telephone-interviewed method through a pretested questionnaire survey. Collected data were analyzed using the descriptive statistical methods in SPSS. . Major disease incidence caused by parasites (33.57%), followed by bacterial (23.57%), fungal (16.43%), viral (5%), and non- infectious diseases (21.43%). The most frequently observed disease was white spot disease (11.4%), followed by Columnaris (10.8%), Dactylogyrus sp. (9.5%), and fin rot (8.9%). The prevalence of fish diseases varied with season. The average prevalence of fish diseases was highest in the southwest monsoon period (49%). Common treatment methods that farmers used to treat the diseases were isolation (20.9%), water exchange (19.9%), adding salt (15.7%), methylene blue (13.6%), copper sulphate (11.5%), and antibiotics (7.1%). However, most of the farmers were able to identify diseases by using behavioral changes (40.5%) and symptoms (37.3%) although they were incapable of recognizing the disease-causing agents. Preventive and prophylactic measures were practiced by 91% of the farmers, the majority of them tend to find solutions through online sources, and some of them get advice from either colleagues or veterinarians. Furthermore, insufficient materials or lacks of awareness regarding fish diseases prevent farmers from gaining new reference knowledge. Thus, the results obtained from this study can be used to fill the knowledge gap by developing an awareness tool that enhances their knowledge on fish health management. Keywords: Ornamental fish; Fish Disease; Seasonal variation; Awareness tool
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    An Overview on Behaviors of Fishing, Fish Consumption and Preservation Techniques of Indigenous Community in Sri Lanka. With Special Reference to ‘Dambana’ Indigenous Community
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Wijerathne, L.H.P.S.; Dias, P.C.B.; Thilakarathne, E.P.D.N.; Dias, P.G.I.; Deyshappriya, N.P.R.
    Indigenous communities can be identified as culturally distinct ethnic groups who are native to a particular place. The Veddas, the indigenous community of Sri Lanka are numerically small people verging on extinction (0.20%). Dambana, the most renowned original settlement of the Veddas in Sri Lanka has been arguably considered as the hub of Veddas over the past half a century. Food consumption patterns of the Veddas had been greatly altered during the recent past with the dynamic process of modernization and also with changing nature of lifestyle. An adequate and updated attention has not been paid by the existing literature on the consumption of fish along with the processing techniques of the indigenous community of Sri Lanka. Hence, this study examines the level of fish consumption and preservation methods practiced by the indigenous community in Dambana region in Sri Lanka. A structured questionnaire based interviews with the indigenous people were conducted along with Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and a desk review to collect the required data while a descriptive analysis employed to accomplish the objectives of the study. The study observed that a higher preference on fishing (85%) compared to hunting. Previously, the indigenous community used the pots made by crushing the wild herbs, spikes made of iron and wood for fishing. Currently, several fishing gears (net gear and spears) are being adopted to increase the quantity of catching which is required for their growing consumption. Moreover, the results indicate that their fish consumption has increased approximately by 95%. Furthermore 65% of them consume fish mostly at once/twice a week. Moreover, the study examined that traditional techniques used for cooking, processing and preservation of fish (specific woods such as Cassia fistula and Manilkara hexamer) have been gradually altered and being used modern technology such as refrigerators. Additionally, preference on different fish species in the market has been enhanced (20%). Under this scenario, the study emphasizes the need of protecting traditional fishing and preservation method while facilitating in order to increase the level of fish consumption of the indigenous community through appropriate strategies. Keywords: Fishing; Fish Consumption; Indigenous community; Preservation Methods; Veddas
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    A Preliminary Study on the Status of the Valithondal Coral Reef in Northern Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Narmatha, R.; Thilakarathne, E.P.D.N.; Sutharshiny, S.
    Coral reefs are one of the most important marine habitats in shallow tropical seas. However, there are no proper scientific records on the status of the Valithondal coral reef in Northern, Sri Lanka. Therefore, the present study was carried out to identify the abundance and diversity of Valithondal coral reef at Northern coastal waters of Sri Lanka from January 2021 to May 2021. Coral Video Transects (CVT) method was carried out for sampling at the selected location assigned by the criteria of the species abundance and water clearance where water depth less than 5m by snorkelling over 100m transect lines, which covered 10m x 100m area. Altogether 69 macro- species were recorded comprising twenty-three species of hard corals, seven species of soft corals, nine species of green seaweeds, seven species of brown seaweeds, five species of red seaweeds, thirteen species of fishes, and five species of molluscs. Species richness, Shannon-H index, and Simpson’s diversity index were 29, 3.113, and 0.9428 respectively. Comparatively, a medium diversity of coral families were recorded. Families Faviidae, Merulinidae, Acroporidae, Montastraeidae, Pocilloporidae, Leptastrea, and Poritidae are the hard corals. There is one soft corals under the family Alcyonidae. Green, brown, and red seaweed species were identified under three, two, and three families respectively. The families of the green seaweeds were Caulerpaceae, Halimedaceae, and Ulvaceae, brown seaweeds were Dictyotacea and Sargassaceae, and red seaweeds were Liagoraceae, Gracilariaceae, and Halymeniaceae. Identified fishes were included under six families; Chaetodontidae, Lutjanidae, Pomacentridae, Serranidae, Acanthuridae, and Haemulidae while molluscs are included in five families which are Buccinidae, Terebridae, Mactridae, Trochidae, and Muricidae. The highest species diversity was observed in the family Merulinidae (12.72%), Caulerpaceae (10.90%), and Alcyonidae (7.27%) and followed by Chaetodontidae (5.45%). The most abundant species were Acropora cytherea and Porites lobata in hard coral species, which is contributed to reef recovery in Sri Lanka. The other high abundant species are Lobopyton sp. and Sinularia sp. in soft coral species, Caulerpa imbricata, Caulerpa lentillifera, Caulerpa parvula, Canistrocarpus crispatus, Padina boergesenii and Halymenia durvillei in seaweed species, Chaetodontidae and Pomacentridae in fish species. The results highlighted that the high biodiversity and abundance of macro-species recorded in the Valithondal coastal waters, which would be protected by forcing effective management practices. Further studies are also needed to the sustainability of the coral reef ecosystem. Keywords: Corals; diversity indices; hard coral; macro-species; molluscs; seaweeds; soft cora
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    Quantifying Selected Nutritional Composition of Siganus lineatus Fish Bone from Waters Around Jaffna Peninsula, Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Uventhikka, S.; Sivashanthini, K.; Thayalini, T.; Jasotha, P.; Velauthamurty, K.
    Family Siganidae is considered to be an economically and nutritionally important species in Sri Lanka. The knowledge on their chemical composition of bone could help us to cure various diseases such as Osteoporosis as it could be applied as an ingredient of indigenous medicine. The studies related to the proximate and mineral composition of fishbone of Siganus lineatus are meagre in Sri Lanka. Hence, the present study was aimed to analyze the proximate and mineral of the fishbone powder of S. lineatus. 20-25cm total length of fish samples were collected from the Jaffna Lagoon from December 2019 to February 2020. The samples were cleaned, boiled and treated in order to achieve treated fish bone for production of powder form. The proximate compositions such as ash, protein, moisture and lipid content of the S. lineatus bone were determined by the standard AOAC methods. The mineral compositions such as Calcium (Ca), Sodium (Na) and Potassium (K) were determined by digital flame photometer and Phosphorus (P) by multiparameter photometer by the standard AOAC methods. The ash, protein, moisture and lipid content values were 50.74±0.65%, 22.07±0.29%, 6.29±0.35% and 3.50±0.16% in fishbone of Siganus lineatus respectively. The mineral composition of Ca, P, K and Na were 12.5%, 7.66%. 0.42% and 0.36%, respectively and the ratio of calcium: phosphorus is found to as 2:1. The present study showed relatively higher ash content. Therefore it is one of the method could be used to analyze the mineral content from fishbone. The results demonstrated that the fish bone powder was nutritious and can contribute towards the calcium deficient diseases and can be recommended for the clinical research studies as an important human health monitoring agent, in the future. Keywords: Calcium deficient disease; Digital flame photometer; Fish bone; Multiparameter photometer; Siganus lineatus
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    A Review on Ornamental Shrimp Industry in Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Mudalipitiya, M.P.S.H.D.; Dias, P.C.B.; Liyanage, N.P.P.
    Ornamental shrimp industry in Sri Lanka is developing rapidly within last few years. However, Sri Lanka is still in a developing stage of ornamental shrimp industry and needs to fulfil some gaps in the sector. Species identification is one of the major challenges in exportation as well as conservation viewpoint to reduce the biopiracy. Therefore, this study was aimed to identify the status of ornamental shrimp export industry, develop a user-friendly identification guide for exporting and protected shrimp species, and develop a database on ornamental shrimp industry. Available digitized export data were obtained from Sri Lankan customs and, reliable secondary data such as legal framework, morphological features, taxonomic levels, water quality requirements, lifespan, disease were collected. However, only 2017 and 2018 export details were available in digital format. Published research articles and taxonomic identification guides were studied and body type, body color, color of the maxillipeds, telson, chelae, abdomen, carapace, nature of the pleopods, significant body color spots and strips were identified as key characteristics and easy identification guide was developed using these morphological features. Percentage of export quantities were calculated using export data for each species and family. Nineteen species belong to eight families were identified as commonly exporting species. Family Hippolytidae had the highest export demand. 88.05% and 89.50% were represented by this family in total export quantities in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Hymenoceridae had the lowest demand of 0.01% in 2017 and no export in 2018. Percentage of Lysmata amboinensis is 66.83% in 2017 and 57.88% in 2018 and Lysmata debilius 22.11% in 2017 and is 29.14% in 2018. These species were the two major exported shrimp species out of all 19 species of family Hippolytidae. Bright colors and tank cleaning ability are major reasons for this high demand. Moreover, selected secondary data and results obtained were compiled into a database in MS Excel format and willing to be published as online database including identification guide, to improve the awareness of the common public in Sri Lanka. Further, easy identification guide will make identification of prohibited shrimps easy, and it will support to reduce biopiracy. Keywords: Shrimp Export; Dichotomous key; Protected shrimp species; Hippolytidae
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    Socio-economic Status of Small Scale Fishery in Koggala Lagoon, Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Mayoshi, M.P.A.; Wickramaratne, I.U.; Abeyrathne, W.A.S.K.
    Small scale fisheries in Sri Lanka make an important contribution to the livelihood, protein nutrition, and food supply as a developing country. Koggala lagoon in Southern province of Sri Lanka was selected as a study site due to lack of published research work on this regard. The objectives are studying status related to socio-economics of small scale fishermen, constrains of small scale fishery on the study area and to suggest an optimum management strategy. Fifty fishermen were interviewed using pre-tested structured questionnaire by using convenience sampling method from January to May 2021. The sample size was selected from five areas in order to scatter around the lagoon. Primary data and secondary data were collected from personal interviews and field observations, past research articles respectively. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. According to variables of fishermen information, 100% male fisherman represented in the area. 52% were middle aged fishermen, 36-50 years old. 84% of fishermen were married. 40% fishermen educated up to grade ten. According to job-related variables, 48% fishermen had 16-32 years of fishing experience. 42% fishermen had a monthly income range between LKR 20,001- LKR 30,000. 36% fishermen had hired work as an alternative income source other than lagoon fishery. According to information of family, 45% fishermen had medium size family include 4-5 members. According to the study, constrains that related to livelihood were increasing tourism activities, decrease vegetation coverage area around lagoon, increase illegal fishing activities and increase of crocodile population. Study revealed that most fishermen partially depend on fishing. Results proved fishermen had satisfactory wealth condition according to monthly income even though lagoon condition became poorer. Based on currently studied constraints that related to livelihood, there is an urgent need for conservation of Koggala lagoon sustainably, while enhancing fishermen livelihood. It can be recommended immediate implementation of optimum management strategy addressing aforementioned issues with further research and make aware lagoon associated stakeholders, including government and non- government authorities. Keywords: Small Scale fisherman; Koggla; Coastal Fishery; Socio-Economic Status
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    Socioeconomic Issues Related to the Spiny Lobster Fishery in Mirijjawila Village, Hambantota District, Sri Lanka
    (Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2021) Dilshan, H.L.; Wickramanayake, D.N.; Subasena, K.G.P.I.P.
    Spiny lobster fishery is a well-established reef associated income generating fishing activity in the southern coast of Sri Lanka. As there is a high demand on spiny lobsters in local and export market they faced to a high risk of overexploitation. As such suitable management plans are needed to ensure the sustainability of this spiny lobster fishery. In order to develop a proper management plan, it is compulsory to have a clear understanding of the socioeconomic issues faced by the lobster fisher folk in the area. With this point of view, a survey on the reef associated fisher folk was carried out at Mirijjawila Village, Hambanthota district from 16th of January 2020 to 16th of January 2021, in order to obtain their views on the current socioeconomic issues and trends related to spiny lobster fishery. Data were collected via pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire formal and informal discussions and field observations. Results indicated that the major socio-economic issues related to this industry were the lack of a fixed price system for spiny lobsters, lack of a well-defined existing property right for fisher folk in the area and illegal activities done by fishermen and collectors, access of unauthorized people to the fishery, prevailing COVID 19 situation, alternative livelihood during the spiny lobster fishery. This study suggests that these issues are needed to be addressed to formulate a local level sound fisheries management plan with continuous monitoring studies. Keywords: Spiny lobsters; Socio-economic issues; Fisheries management; Sri Lanka