The fish stocks of Sri Lanka have not been assessed by independent surveys since the four surveys carried out as part of the 1978-1980 investigation of fishery resources with Research Vessel “Dr. Fridtjof Nansen”. Under a collaboration of Sri Lanka and Norway bilateral project on improving the management of fish resources in Sri Lanka, again the Research Vessel “Dr. Fridtjof Nansen” will make available in Sri Lanka on 21st June 2018 to carry out an ecosystem survey in Sri Lankan waters for 26 days. During the survey the present status of fish stocks, oceanographic conditions, pollution levels, spawning grounds, mapping of sea bed and sensitive environments, marine mammals and the benthic conditions will be intensively examined. For the survey 20 Sri Lankan Scientists will be onboard they will learn the latest technologies and apply the knowledge to sustainable use of Sri Lanka’s marine resources.
Initiating the visit of the Research Vessel Dr. Fridtjof Nanasen, an initial Press Conference was held on 13.06.2018 at the Ministry of Rural Economy, Colombo 03 with the leadership of Hon. Gamini Vijith Vijayamuni Zoysa the Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development and Rural Economy and the H.E Ambassador of Norway and FAO Representation. All the parties wished that the ecosystem survey to be a success.
