A Review of Marine Fin Fish Fisheries Research in Sri Lanka from 1902 to 1900

Abstract

Fisheries Research in Sri Lanka started to gain momentum in the 195O's from a low ebb prior to independence. It was because colonial rulers before 1948 paid very little attention to develop fisheries. They were exploring possibilities to develop pearl oyster and window pane oyster fishery as it was a good source of revenue to their own countries. About 850 or more species of marine fishes are found in Sri Lankan waters. Taxonomic studies of some selected genera had indicated more species are present now than the number reported about 50 years ago. The biology, distribution, migratory behaviour and catching methods potential resources for some of the commercially important large and small pelaglcs of the western coast have been studied. Relatively more research information are available on medium size pelagics such as tuna which forms about 10% compared to the small pelagics whichform about 80 % of the total catch. Very little attention has been paid to study the species on the north and the east coasts. Attempts have been made to improve certain types of fishing gears and catching methods. studies in population dynamics, mathematical models, stock assessments, bio-economic studies are in their infant stages due to lack of long term catch and effort data base. Further, information on demersal species are 'leTyscanty. One major reason for the lack of research information could be attributed to lack of long term integrated research plan according to the need of the nation. At present research is mostly done on some selected aspects of a limited number of species of fish and the work is also confined to south and west coasts of Sri Lanka.