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A note on Fish diversity in the major Lagoons of Bundala National Park-A Ramsar wetland in Sri Lanka-An insight to Wetland degradation

Author Affiliations

  • 1Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Ruhuna, Matara, SRI LANKA
  • 2Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Ruhuna, Matara, SRI LANKA
  • 3Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Ruhuna, Matara, SRI LANKA

Res. J. Animal, Veterinary and Fishery Sci., Volume 2, Issue (5), Pages 10-13, May,24 (2014)

Abstract

This short report explains the status of fish diversity in the major lagoons of Bundala National Park (Malala, Embillakala and Bundala) according to a study conducted thirteen years before with a note to the fish diversity in recent past. Diversity and density of fishes inhabiting these lagoons and their feeding habits were studied weekly from June 2000 to May 2001 and November to December 2013. Fishes were identified and classified as bentho-pelagic, dermersal, pelagic and reef associated guilds according to ichthyological literature. Highest fish diversity was recorded in Embillakala lagoon and Malala lagoon. Dermersal fish guild was prominent in Malala and Embillakala lagoons. Omnivore and picsivore guilds were prominent in BNP lagoons. Two fish species associated with reefs were found only in Malala lagoon. As for the survey conducted in 2013, it has been noted that fish diversity has declined and lagoon habitats have been changed immensely. This report highlights a possible loss of fish diversity over time in the major lagoons of BNP indicating loss of biodiversity and wetland degradation.

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