Dr. Deeptha Amarathunga

Name : A. A. Deeptha Amarathunga 

Contact : deeptha@nara.ac.lk
deeptha.amarathunga@gmail.com 

Education

  • Ph. D. in Engineering – University of Yamanshi, Japan
  • M.Sc. in Environment &Forestry (G.P.A 3.64/4.00)(2005) Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
  • B.Sc Agriculture Special (2003) University of Peradeniya,  Peradeniya , Sri Lanka

Research interest

  • Hydrobiogeochemistry
  • Contaminant and water science
  • Water pollution & Bio indicators
  • Microplastic/Nano plastic
  • Environmental Impact Assessment
  • Wetland ecology and Management
  • Sediment/soil dynamics and benthos

Research Experience

  • Status, Present trends and Assessment of Water Pollution in River basins with Respect to Catchment Land-Use – Gin ganga Basin – 2009
  • Assessment of surface water bodies and streams using  Driver, Pressure, State, Impact and Response (DPSIR) frame work to ascertain its status in terms of  pollution levels, changes, identification of pollution indicator species within the Upper Mahaweli river basins - 2007/2008
  • Monitoring of surface water quality and assessment of pollution loads coming into Maduganga lagoon- 2006
  • Status of water quality in selected inland aquatic environment with special reference to water pollution – 2005
  • Managing Agro-chemical Multiuse Aquatic Systems (MAMAS) Project - 2005/2006
  • Recent physico-chemical changes of the waters of Palk Bay and Palk Strait

Training

  • International Training on Marine Environmental Conservation, 01 November 2009 to 14 November 2009 in Academy Luat Malaysia, Malaysia
  • National workshop to design and develop the project “identifying and protecting important plant areas (IPA), 2007 in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Conducted by conducted by Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and The World Conservation Union (IUCN) in Sri Lanka.
  • In-situ bioassay development and conducting toxicity tests under Managing Agrochemicals in Multiuse Aquatic Systems (MAMAS) international collaborative research project funded by European Union under Environmental Studies Division (ESD) ,NARA
  • International Workshops on Managing Agro Chemicals in Multi Use Aquatic Systems Kandy, Sri Lanka, 16th to 17th August, 2005.
  • International Workshops on PRIMET Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2005
  • Interim workshop of the senior research programme on “Climate Change in Sri Lanka”, Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2003
  • Understanding relationships between land use and micro hydro potential of some selected micro catchments" collaboration with Inter Mediate Technology Development Group (ITDG)

Publications

Full papers in the peer reviewed Journal and proceeding

Full papers in the peer reviewed journals

  • Madushika Sewwandi1, A.A.D. Amarathunga2, Meththika Vithanage (XXXX). Beach sand pollution and distribution of buried microplastics ensuing the MV X-Press Pearl maritime disaster in Sri Lankan sea. Accepted to Journal of marine pollution bulletin.
  • R.M.C.Y. Rathnayaka, A.A.D. Amarathunga, B.K.A. Bellanthudawa, P.A.S.A. Rathnasri, A.T. Novak, C. Amarasiri, (XXXX). The effectiveness of plant integrated lowcost treatment system to treat well water in coastal regions. Accepted publish in Journal of Water Practice & Technology
  • Narangoda, S. R. C. N. K., Dangalle, C. D., Amarathunga, A. A. D., (2022). Selected freshwater fish species for assessing the water quality of the lower catchment of the Kelani River, Sri Lanka. Environ Monit Assess,194:650. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-022-10319-x
  • Madushika Sewwandi, Oshadi Hettithanthri, S.M. Egodage, A.D. Amarathunga, Meththika Vithanage, (2022). Unprecedented marine microplastic contamination from the X-Press Pearl container vessel disaster. Science for the Total Environment. 828-154374. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154374
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D.*, Kasthuriarachchi, T.D.W., Hettige, N. D., and Maddumage, M.D.S.R. (2020). Study on planktonic community structure with reference to physico-chemical parameters in hilly upper catena fresh water reservoir ecosystems. Wetlands Sri lanka, CEA, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Pp 25-38
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D., and Kazama, F, (2017). Impact of farmer’s perceptions, and landuse pattern to pesticide loading from upper catena of the tropical river basin (Upper Kotmale Basin) in Sri Lanka. Asian journal of water, environment and pollution. Vol. 14, No 4 (2017), pp43-59. DOI 10.3233/AJW-170036. https://content.iospress.com/articles/asian-journal-of-water-environment-and-pollution/ajw170036
  • Amarathunga, A. A. D., Gunawardhana,   M. K. P. C., Hitinayake,  H. M. G. S. B., and Jayawardana, G. D. M. N.(2016). Anthropogenic impacts on vegetation diversity and spatial floral composition of the swamp forest associated with the tropical river basin. Journal of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka. 5(1), pp.23–40. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jepsl.v5i1.7866
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D. and Fernando, R.W. (2016).Study on suspended sediment and its impact on aquatic invertebrates in Gin River, Sri Lanka. Journal of Food and Agriculture, Vol.9, 24-38pp. https://jfa.sljol.info/articles/abstract/10.4038/jfa.v9i1-2.5204/  or https://jfa.sljol.info/488/volume/9/issue/1-2/
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D. and Kazama, F., (2016). Impact of land use on surface water quality: A case study in the Gin River basin, Sri Lanka. Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, Vol. 13, No. 3 (2016), pp. 1–13.DOI 10.3233/AJW-160022 https://content.iospress.com/articles/asian-journal-of-water-environment-and-pollution/ajw160022?resultNumber=0&totalResults=2557&start=0&q=Impact+of+land+use+on+surface+water+quality%3A+A+case+study+in+the+Gin+River+basin&resultsPageSize=10&rows=10
  • Weerasekara, K. A. W. S., O. M. M. D. Jayampathi, N. D. Hettige, A. M. Azmy,A. A. D. Amarathunga, W. D. N. Wickramaarachchi, M. D. S. R. Maddumage, J. K. P .C. Jayawardena, S. R. C. N. K. Narangoda, R. M. G. N. Rajapaksha and N. P. P. Liyanage, 2015. Assessment of Water Pollution Status of Selected Fishery Harbours located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Journal of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka: Vol. 4 (2) 36-46pp
  • Weerasekara, K. A. W. S., Amarathunga, A. A. D., Shirantha, R.R.A.R., Sureshkumar, N., Wickramaarachchi, W. D. N.. and Azmy, S. A. M., (2015). Assessment of the Water Pollution Status in Uma Oya, Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Journal of Aquatic Sciences, 20 (2), 31-38.
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D. and Futaba, K., (2014). Photodegradation of chlorpyrifos an organophosphorus pesticide with humic acid bounded suspended matter, Journal of Hazardous Materials, 280, 671–677 DOI:http://dx.doi.org/doi:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2014.08.063
  • Amarathunga A.A.D. and Sureshkumar, N. (2013). Assessment of water quality of major streams in the Madu Ganga catchment and pollution loads draining into Madu Ganga from its own catchment. Journal of the National Aquatic Resource Research & Development Agency, Sri Lanka, Vol. 42. pp27- 46.
  • Amarathunga, A. A. D.,Weerasekara, K. A. W. S., Sureshkumar, N., Azmy, S. A. M., Wickramaarchchi, W. D. N., and Kazama, F. (2013). Behavior and Loading of Suspended Sediment and Nutrients from River Basins in the Hilly Catena Under Intensive Agriculture Cropping: A Case Study in Upper Kotmale Basin in Sri Lanka. Journal of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka, Vol. 2 No. 2, 13-31. ISSN: 2279-1809. DOI :http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jepsl.v2i2.6327
  • Amarathunga A.A.D., Jinadasa, S. U. P. And Azmy, S. A. M. (2013). Sedimentary Characteristics and Status of Water Quality in Polwatta River, and Weligama Bay in Sri Lanka. Journal of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka Vol.2(1) , 38-51 ISSN: 2279-1809. DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jepsl.v2i1.5745
  • Amarathunga,A.A.D., and Hitinayake, H.M.G.S.B. (2012). Vegetation Structure and Faunal Composition of Wathurana Wetland Ecosystem In Tebuwana, Kalutara, Sri Lanka. journal of the National Aquatic Resource Research & Development Agency, Sri Lanka. Vol. 41, 59-78. http://www.nara.ac.lk/NARA/12/nara%20journal/Journal%2041/Vol.%2041%20ebook-%206.pdf

Full papers in the peer reviewed proceeding

International

  • Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Azmy S.A.M., Hettige, N.D., Wickramarathne, C., Amarathunga A.A.D., Heenatigala P.P.M and Rajapakshe, W. (2012). Assessment of causes for frequent occurrences of fish kills incidents of Sri Lanka with special reference to water quality. International Symposium on Urban Lakes Monitoring and Management on 18 May 2012, Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture (PGIA), Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, pp.145-151.
    http://www.researchgate.net/publication/237044100_URBAN_LAKE_MONITORING_AND_MANAGEMENT

  • Azmy S.A.M., Weerasekara K.A.W.S., Hettige N.D., Wickramaratne C. andAmarathunga A. A. D. (2012). Determination of the current status of water quality in commercially important water bodies mainly the Puttalam lagoon, giant’s tank and Akurala water bodies of SriLanka through rapid assessment surveys. International Symposium on Urban Lakes Monitoring and Management on 18 May 2012, Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture (PGIA), Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, pp.135-144.
    http://www.researchgate.net/publication/237044100_URBAN_LAKE_MONITORING_AND_MANAGEMENT
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D., Sureshkuma, N., Weerasekara, K.A.W.S. and Azmy, S. A. M. (2010). Study the Effect of Salinity and Nutrients for the Growth of Najas Marina and Its Impac to Aquatic Biodiversity In Madu Ganga, a Ramsar Wetland In Sri Lanka. International Symposium on Forestry and Environment Proceeding, University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Sri Lanka. Vol. 15:155 – 163pp
    http://journals.sjp.ac.lk/index.php/fesympo/article/view/175/82

  • Weerasekara K. A. W.S., Amarathunga, A.A.D.,Shirantha, R. R. A.R., Sureshkumar, N. andAzmy, S. A. M. (2010). Current Status of Ambewela Reservoir of Sri Lanka with Special Reference to Water Pollution. International Symposium on Forestry and Environment Proceeding, University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Sri Lanka. Vol. 15: 85 – 92pp http://journals.sjp.ac.lk/index.php/fesympo/article/view/166/73
  • Shirantha, R. R. A. R., Amarathunga, A. A. D., and Weerasekara, K. A. W. S. (2010). Lake Gregory, alien flora and urban aqua-environments in a misty city of Sri Lanka. International Conference on Sustainable Built Environment (ICSBE-2010) on 13-14 December 2010, Kandy, Sri Lanka. Volume ii, 52-61pp.
    http://www.civil.mrt.ac.lk/ICSBE_2010/vol_02/12.pdf

  • Azmy, S. A. M., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Shirantha, R. R. A. R. , and Weerasekara, K. A. W.S. (2010). Study of Nutrient Variation and Physico-chemical characteristics including bio-indicators of the Dik Oya Basin in Mahaweli Upper Catchment in Sri Lanka. Proceeding part-ii-full papers of the 15thInternational Symposium on Forestry and Environment 26 to 27 November 2010, University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka. 25 – 32pp.
    http://www.sjp.ac.lk/journal/jtfe/sympo2010/content%20final.pdf

  • Shirantha, R. R. A. R., Amarathunga, A. A. D. and Weerasekara, K. A. W. S., (2010). Existing challenge to succeed a sustainable built aqua-environment in misty green valleys in the hill country of Sri Lanka; a case study. International Conference on Sustainable Built Environment (ICSBE-2010), on 13-14 December 2010, Kandy, Sri Lanka. Volume ii, 344-354pp.
    http://www.civil.mrt.ac.lk/ICSBE_2010/VOL_02.pdf

    Local

  • Amarathunga, A.A.D., Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Sureshkumar, N., Azmy, S.A.M., and R.R.A.R. Shirantha, (2010). Total Suspended Solids and Turbidity co-relation and its impact on aquatic community in Kotmale sub-catchment in the Upper Mahaweli Watershed in Sri Lanka. Water resource research in Sri Lanka. Symposium proceeding of the water professional’s day, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. October 2010. 115-124pp.
  • Wicramaarachchi, W. D. N.,Azmy, S.A.M.,Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., and Amarathunga, A.A.D. (2010). Comparison of water quality status of Dutch channel and identification of effect of dredging. Water resource research in Sri Lanka. Symposium proceeding of Water professional’s day, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. October 2010, pp 125 – 135.

Publications-Abstract

International conferences

  • Peiris, B.A.D. Maddumage, M.D.S.R.*, Pathmalal, M.M., Narangoda, S.R.C.N.K., Amarathunga, A.D., Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., 2021. Species diversity and abundance of benthos along the hamilton canal. International Conference on Environmental Governance   (ICEG), November, 2021, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Pp24.
  • S.R. C. N. K. Narangoda, C. D. Dangalle, Amarathunga, A. A. D., 2020. Variation of physico-chemical characteristics of locations of the upper catchment of Kelani River Basin. Published in International Conference on Science and Technology Colombo on 2020-12-17 - 18 at Galle Face Hotel, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
  • Rathnayaka Y, L., Amarathunga, A.A.D.*, and Jayasiri, H.B., 2019. Microplastics Contamination in Selected Beaches in Western and Southern coast of Sri Lanka. The Second WESTPAC Scientific Symposium and Third Workshop on Distribution, Source, Fate and Impacts of Marine Microplastics and Plastics in Asia and the Pacific 6-8 November 2019, Chongming, Shanghai (http://file.iocwestpac.org/marine%20microplastics/6-8%20Nov%202019/WESTPAC%20Program%20Book.pdf).
  • Supitha, E., Amarathunga, A.A.D. , Jayasinghe, Y.,  2019.  A study on the adsorption and photo degradation of chlorpyrifos pesticide with natural absorbentmaterials.  Proceedings of the 7th SURF International Workshop, 20-22 September 2019, Galle, Sri Lanka
  • Nandasena, WDTN., Amarathunga, , Narangoda, S.R.C.N.K., Jayasinghe, GY., 2019. Study on pollutant levels in upper catchment of the Kelani river basin: A case study in Maussakelle reservoir. International Conference on Water & Air Pollution – Recent Advances in Research” 29th & 30th March 2019, Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
  • Hettige, N.D., Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Amaratunga, A.A.D., 2018. A study of dredging impacts on water quality in Bomuruella Reservoir, Nuwara Eliya. Twenty third International Forestry and Environment Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardanapura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka.
  • S.A.D.M. Samarakoon, N.D.Hettige, A.A.D. Amarathunga, G.Y.Jayasinghe, (2016). Assessment of Pollution Risk in Maduganga Lagoon with Special Reference to Water Quality and Benthos. Conference: Internationa Symposium on Agriculture and Environment : Towards a Knowledge-based Bioeconomy: New Challenges, Opportunities and Solutions, At University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, Volume 2.
  • Deeptha AMARATHUNGA and Futaba KAZAMA, (2014). Photodegradation of chlorpyrifos an organophosphorus pesticide with suspended matter bounded humic acid. Proceedings of Water and Environment Technology Conference 2014, 28th-29th June 2014, Waseda University,Tokyo, Japan. 29pp.
  • Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., AzmyS.A.M.,Wickramarachchi, W.DN., Amarathunga A.A.D. (2014). Water quality status of some selected water wells located in Kebithigollawa and Medawatchiyainnorth central province. International Symposium on Water Quality and Human Health: Challenges Ahead, 27 – 28, June 2014 at Post Graduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. pp.10.  http://www.pgis.lk/watersym/docs/proceedings_2014.pdf
  • Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Azmy S.A.M., Hettige, N.D., Wickramarathne, C., Amarathunga A.A.D., Heenatigala P.P.M and Rajapakshe, W. (2012). Assessment of Water Quality Status of Aquatic Environment Subjected to Frequent Occurrences of Fish Kill Incidents. International Symposium on Water Quality and Human Health: Challenges Ahead, 22 – 23, March 2012 at Post Graduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. pp.50. http://www.pgis.lk/watersym/docs/proceedings_2012.pdf
  • Azmy, S.A.M., Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Hettige N.D., Wickramarathne, C., and Amarathunga A.A.D. (2012). Water Quality Status in Some Selected Water Bodies in Anuradapura District. International Symposium on Water Quality and Human Health: Challenges Ahead, 22 – 23, March 2012 at Post Graduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Pp.18. http://www.pgis.lk/watersym/docs/proceedings_2012.pdf 
  • Azmy S.A.M., Weerasekara K.A.W.S., Hettige N.D., Wickramaratne C. and Amarathunga A.A.D. (2012) Rapid Assessment Survey to Determine Current Status of Water Quality in Puttalam Lagoon, Giant’s Tank and Akurala Water Bodies. International Symposium on Water Quality and Human Health: Challenges Ahead, 22 – 23, March 2012 at Post Graduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Pp. 26.  http://www.pgis.lk/watersym/docs/proceedings_2012.pdf
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D.,Weerasekara, K. A. W.S, Shirantha, R. R. A. R., Sureshkumar, N., and Azmy, S. A. M. (2010). Nutrient Loading in NanuOya, Dabagasthalawa Oya and Agra Oya in Mahaweli Upper Catchment of Sri Lanka. International symposium on “New Horizons in Humanities and Science Towards  Sustainable Development”, 26th to 28th August 2010, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka. 137pp. http://www.sab.ac.lk/IS-2010/Data%20Docs/Schedule-19.08.2010.pdf
  • Azmy, S. A. M., Wickramaarachchi W.D.N., Weerasekara, K. A. W.S, Amarathunga, A.A.D. (2010). Status of Dutch Cannel After Dredging Operations with Special Reference to Water Quality. International symposium on “New Horizons in Humanities and Science Towards  Sustainable Development”, 26th to 28th August 2010, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka. 138pp. http://www.sab.ac.lk/IS-2010/Data%20Docs/Schedule-19.08.2010.pdf
  • Wickramaarachchi W.D.N., Azmy S. A. M., Sureshkumar, N., Amarathunga, A.A.D.,Weerasekara, K. A. W.S. (2010). Assessment of marine litter in coastal and marine environment of western and southern coast of Sri Lanka in relation to water pollution. Proceeding part - i Abstract of the 15th International Symposium on Forestry and Environment 26 to 27 November 2010, University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka. 115pp
  • Sureshkumar, N., Amarathunga, A.A.D.andWickramaarachchi, W.D.N. (2007). Comparison of physico – chemical characteristics and pollution trends of the Three river systems (Menik Ganga, KirindiOya and Walawe Ganga). International Conference on Trophycal Aquatic Research towards sustainable development, 15th – 16th February 2007, NARA, Colombo, Sri Lanka. 41pp.
  • Sureshkumar, N. Wickramaarachchi, W.D.N. and Amarathunga, A.A.D.(2007). An overview of recent physical-chemical information on the waters of Palk Bay and Palk Strait. International Conference on Trophycal Aquatic Research towards sustainable development, 15th – 16th February 2007, Colombo, Sri Lanka. 40pp.

National conferences

  • Chathuranga, A.R.W.M.M.R., Jayasiri, H.B., Amarathunga, A.A.D. and Rathnasri, P.A.S.A., (2021). Contamination of microplastics in cultured seaweed of Kappaphycus alvarezii, North and Northwest Coasts of Sri Lanka. Aquatic Research for Proesperity of the Nation. Ocean University of Sri Lanka, Colombo. pp29
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D., Maddumage, M.D.S.R., Jayanatha, J.S., Wickramaarchchi, W.D.N. (2021). Assessment of Physiochemical Parameters to Evaluate the Water Quality in the Panama Lagoon, Sri Lanka. OCUSL Symposium 2021. Aquatic Research for Proesperity of the Nation. Ocean University of Sri Lanka, Colombo. Pp35
  • Chandima N. K. Narangoda, Chandima D. Dangalle*, A. Deeptha Amarathunga. (2021). Evaluation of water quality in the upper and lower catchments of Kelani River Basin. Anuual session on Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Association for Advancement of Science.
  • S. R. C. N. K. Narangoda, A. A. D. Amarathunga, C. D. Dangalle, (2021). The association of fish abundance and composition with water quality parameters in the lower Kelani River Basin, Sri Lanka. Published in IOBSL 2021 – 41st Annual Sessions, 24 September, 2021, Colombo. Pp25
  • GunarathnaY.N.A., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Bambaranda, B.V.A.S.M.. Weersekara, K.A.W.S., Narangoda, S.R.C.N.K., Maddumage, M.D.S.R.(2020). Study on Diversity and Abundance of Phytoplankton in Mawella Lagoon with reference to Water Quality. Proceedings of the “Technological innovation for fisheries and aquaculture development”, Annual Scientific Session – 2020, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka. 20pp
  • B.R.C. Mendis, and A. A. D. Amaratunga. (2020). Analysis of plastic and polythene waste inputs from selected Coastal areas of Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the “Technological innovation for fisheries and aquaculture development”, Annual Scientific Session – 2020, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka. 28pp
  • Amarathunga, A. A. D., Narangoda, S.R.C.N.K., Maddumage, M.D.S.R., Jayawardana, J.K.P.C., and Mendis, B.R.C. (2020). Assessment of physico-chemical characteristic and aquatic invertebrates’ abundance in the Benthota River basin in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the “Technological innovation for fisheries and aquaculture development”, Annual Scientific Session – 2020, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka. 27pp
  • Dammala J.R.O.A, Maddumage M.D.S.R, Abeygunawardana A.P., Narangoda S.R.C.N.K., Amarathunga A.A.D, Weerasekara K.A.W.S., 2020. Study on ground water quality in norochcholai, puttalam district, sri lanka. Proceedings of the “Technological innovation for fisheries and aquaculture development”, Annual Scientific Session – 2020, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka. 23pp
  • Kumari, K.P.V.K., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Suwandahannadi, W.K., Jayamanne, S.C., 2020. Assessment of sediment quality and macro benthic invertebrates in Malala Lagoon, Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the “Technological innovation for fisheries and aquaculture development”, Annual Scientific Session – 2020, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka. 21pp
  • Suwandhahannadi, WK., Amarathunga, , Dahanayaka, DDGL., 2020. Temporal Variation of Physico-chemical Parameters and Primary Productivity in Malala Lagoon, Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the “Technological innovation for fisheries and aquaculture development”, Annual Scientific Session – 2020, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka. 18pp
  • Narangoda, S. R. C. N. K., Dangalle, C. D., Amarathunga, A. D., 2020. Comparison of Fish Species Diversity Indices with Water Quality Parameters as a Measure of Ecological Degradation in Lower Catchment of Kelani River Basin. Proceedings of the “Technological innovation for fisheries and aquaculture development”, Annual Scientific Session – 2020, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka. 19pp
  • WK Suwandhahannadi, AAD Amarathunga, DDGL Dahanayaka., 2020. Composition, Density and Diversity of Plankton in Malala Lagoon, Southern Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the Twenty Sixth Scientific Sessions of the Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (SLAFAR), 10th December 2020. Science Faculty, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. 8pp
  • Supith, E., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Jayasinghe, G. Y., 2020. Evaluation of Chlorpyrifos toxicity under adsorption and photodegradation using Daphnia magna. Second Research Symposium, The Ocean University of Sri Lanka, 19 November 2020. 27pp
  • Madusanka, M.D.C., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Aruakumara, K.K.I.U., Nutrients dynamics in the water and sediment and its impact to planktonic species diversity in ratgama lagoon, sri lanka. Second Research Symposium, The Ocean University of Sri Lanka, 19 November 2020. 29pp
  • Sujeewani, S.A.S., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Dahanayaka, D.D.G.L., 2020. Assessment of marine litter in selected beaches of southern and western part of Sri Lanka. Second Research Symposium, The Ocean University of Sri Lanka, 19 November 2020. 26pp
  • R.M.C.Y. Rathnayaka, A.A.D. Amarathunga*, B.K.A. Bellanthudawa, S. Rathnasri, C. Amarasiri, 2019. The effectiveness of lowcost treatment system integrated with herbal plant materials to treat well water in selected coastal regions of Sri Lanka. First Research Symposium, The Ocean University of Sri Lanka, 19. December 2019. 35pp
  • H.D.Liyange, A.A.D.Amarathunga, H.B. Jayasiri, V.L.Rathnayaka ,C.Mendis, H.K.R.Tushara, 2019. Plankton community structure in relation to physico-chemical parameter in coastal water from Colombo Fort to Panadura. First Research Symposium, The Ocean University of Sri Lanka, 19. December 2019. 36pp
  • V.L. Rathnayaka, A.A.D. Amarathunga, H.B. Jayasiri, H.D. Liyanage, 2019. Microplastics Contamination in Selected Beaches of Sri Lanka. First Research Symposium, The Ocean University of Sri Lanka, 19. December 2019. 34pp
  • Ranasingha, K.M.G.G.N.S., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Jayawardana, G.D.M.N., Jayasinghe, G.Y., Weerasekara, K.AW.S., and Narangoda, S.R.C.N.K., 2019. Development of a model treatment system for fish effluent in small scalefish stall. Aquatic Research to Nurture the Nation. Scientific Session - 2019, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka.51pp
  • Ranasingha, K.M.G.G.N.S., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Jayawardana, G.D.M.N., Jayasinghe, G.Y., Mendis, B.R.C., Maddumage, M.D.S.R., and Jayawardhane, J.K.P.C., 2019.Assessment of the perception of owners on waste water discharge fromtheir small-scale fish stalls. Aquatic Research to Nurture the Nation. Scientific Session - 2019, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka.
  • Chathurani, S.H.U., Ranathunga, R.R.M.K.P., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Hettige, N.D., and Weerasekera, K.A.W.S., 2019. Present status of the water quality in Beruwala Fishery Habour. Sri Lanka. Aquatic Research to Nurture the Nation. Scientific Session - 2019, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka.
  • P.C. Kithmini, A.A.D. Amarathunga, C.H.A. Narangoda, G.Y. Jayasinghe (2018). Nutrient Behaviour and its Impact on Primary Productivity and Benthic Community in Dedduwa Estuary, Bentota River, Sri Lanka. International conference of National Aquatic Resources Research & Development Agency (NARA). Pp35.
  • A.A.D. Amarathunga, D.D.G.L. Dahanayaka, S.A.M. Azmy, V. Pahalawattaarachchi, N.D. Hettige, (2017). Assessment of Environmental Damage Due to Oil Spill Incident at Lunawa lagoon, Muthurajawela, Sri Lanka. Third national marine symposium on marine environment, MEPA.
  • G.M.T.E. Jayaratne, G.J. GanegamaArachchi, A.A.D. Amarathunga, RuchithaPerera and Wickramasinghe, 2017. Investigation of histamine in Katsuwonuspelamis (skipjack tuna) harvested by multi-day boats using a rapid colourimetric method. Proceedings of the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Scientific Sessions. Colombo, Sri Lanka.pp58.
  • N. D. Hettige, A.A.D. Amarathunga, S.R.C.N.K. Narangoda, M.D.S.R. Madduamge and K.A.W.S. Weerasekara, 2017. Assessment of current status of water quality in Madu Ganga Lagoon: A Ramsar Wetland in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Scientific Sessions. Colombo, Sri Lanka.pp43.
  • K. C.S. De Silva, A. A. D. Amarathunga and S. C. Jayamanne, 2017. Study on diazinon pesticide adsorption to soil and its impact on two species of zooplankton. Proceedings of the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Scientific Sessions. Colombo, Sri Lanka. pp33.
  • Muhandiram, N. L., A. D. Amarathunga and S. C. Jayamanne, 2017. Study on Adsorption and Toxicological Impact of Chlorpyrifos Pesticide to the Aquatic Invertebrates. Proceedings of the Twenty Third Annual Scientific Session of the Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, NARA, Colombo-15, Sri Lanka.Pp50.
  • A. A..D.T.A.Amarasinge, S.A.M. Azmy, K.A.W.S. Weerasekara, S.C. Jayamanna, J.K.P.C. Jayawardana, N.D. Hettige, M.D.S.R. Maddumage, A.A.D. Amarathunga, S.R.C.N.K. Narangoda, and W.D.N. Wickramaraachchi, 2016. Assessment of Current Water Pollution Status of Lagoons and Coastal Waters in North Western Province of Sri Lanka.Twenty second annual scientific session, Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, 03rd June 2016, NARA Auditorium, Sri Lanka, pp 17.
  • D. R.I.G. Ariyasinghe, S.A.M. Azmy, K.A.W.S. Weerasekara, S.C. Jayamanna, J.K.P.C. Jayawardana, N.D. Hettige, M.D.S.R. Maddumage, A.A.D. Amarathunga, S.R.C.N.K. Narangoda, and W.D.N. Wickramaraachchi, 2016. Phytoplankton diversity and distribution in relation to the water quality of Batticaloa lagoon, Sri Lanka. Healthier aquatic environment for the economic growth, NARA scientific sessions 2016, colombo.
  • M. S. Weerasooriyagedara, N.D. Hettige, A.A.D. Amarathunga, R.M.G.N. Rajapaksha, S.C Jayamanne, K.A.W.S.Weerasekara, M.D.S.R. Maddumage, S.A.M.Azmy, W.D.N. Wickramaarachchi, J.K.P.C. Jayawardane, S.R.C.N.K. Narangoda, 2016. Study of the Diversity of Benthic Macro-Invertebrates at Panadura Estuary in Sri Lanka. Conference: Towards emerging trend in value addition, 6th research symposium, At UvaWellassa University, Badulla, Sri Lanka.
  • Gammanpila, M., Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Hettige, N.D., Wickramarachchi, W.D.N., Amarathunga, A.A.D., Azmy, S.A.M., Maddumage, M.D.S.R. and Jayawardhane, J.K.P.C. 2015. Hydrography, nutrients and abundance and distribution of zooplankton in Puttalam Lagoon, Sri Lanka. Second National Symposium on Marine Environment Protection Agency– 2015, 18th & 19th November 2015 Colombo.
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D. and Kazama, F., 2015. Model estimation of pesticide concentration in downstream waters of tropical river basins. “Aquatic Research for Blue Economic Development, NARA, Scientific Sessions – 2015, Colombo, Sri Lanka, pp 25. http://www.erepository.nara.ac.lk/bitstream/handle/1/454/SLJNARAABS-2015-17.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
  • Narangoda, S. R. C. N. K., Maddumage, M. D. S. R., Wikramarachchi, W.D. N., Weerasekara, K. A. W. S., Hettige, N. D., Jayawardhane, J. K. P. C. ,Azmy, S. A. M, Amarathunga, A. A. D. and Mendis, B. R. C. (2015). Water quality status of selected Aquatic environment in Sri Lanka during fish kill incidents. Role of Aquatic Resources Towards Blue Economy, Twenty first annual scientific session, Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources,  22nd May 2015, NARA Auditorium, Sri Lanka. pp18.
  • Jayawardhane, J. K. P. C. ,Narangoda, S. R. C. N. K., Maddumage, M. D. S. R., Weerasekara, K. A. W. S., Hettige, N. D., Azmy, S. A. M, Amarathunga, A. A. D., Mendis, B. R. C. and Wikramarachchi, W.D. N., 2015. Status of water pollution at some selected coastal habitats in the Eastern coast of Sri Lanka. Role of Aquatic Resources Towards Blue Economy, Twenty first annual scientific session, Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources,  22nd May 2015, NARA Auditorium, Sri Lanka, pp38.
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D.,Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Azmy, S.A.M., and Wickramaarachchi, W.D.N. (2013). The impact of the suspended sediment variation on aquatic invertebrates in Gin Ganga basin. Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development for a Quality Life”, NARA, Scientific Sessions – 2013 Colombo, Sri Lanka, November, 29, 2012.
  • Hettige, N.D., Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Azmy, S.A.M., Wickramaratne, C. andAmarathunga, A.A.D.(2012). Identification of current water pollution status at Wellawatta Canal sea mouth: a case study of marine pollution in Sri Lanka. Meeting Challenges in Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, NARA scientific sessions 2012, December, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
  • Weerasekara, K.A.W.S., Azmy, S.A.M., Wickramaarachchi, W.D.N. and Amarathunga, A.A.D. (2012). Water quality status of some selected water wells located in Padaviya. North Central Province. Meeting Challenges in Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, NARA scientific sessions 2012, December, 2012.
  • Amarathunga A. A. D. and Sureshkumar N. (2009). Status of physic-chemical Proceedings of the 65th parameters and pollution load washed into Madu Ganga Lagoon from catchment area. Annual Session, Sri Lanka Association for Advancement of Science, Sri Lanka. 426/D, 91pp.
  • Shirantha, R. R. A. R., Amarathunga, A. A. D.andWeerasekera, K. A. W. S. (2009). Assessment of ecological integrity of Kothmale upper-catchment of Sri Lanka through a study of invertebrate community. First National Symposium of Natural Resources Management. Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka (56p)
  • Weerasekera, K. A. W. S., Amarathunga A. A. D., Sureshkumar, N., Azmy, S.A.M. and Shirantha, R. R. A. R. (2009), Comparison of Physico-Chemical Parameters of Uma Oya&BaduluOya Sub Catchments (of the Mahaweli Upper Catchment) with special reference to the water pollution. Sri Lanka Association for Advancement of Science, Proceedings of the 65th Annual Session, Sri Lanka. 834/D, 211pp
  • Shirantha, R. R. A. R. Amarathunga, A. A. D. and Amarasinghe, U.S. (2008). Faunal invasions of riverine ecosystems in Sri Lanka: Remarks to implement effective control measures to prevent range expansion of alien ichthyofauna. Fourteenth Annual Scientific Sessions, Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, June 2008, Colombo, Sri Lanka. 11pp.
  • Shirantha, R. R. A. R. Amarathunga, A. A. D.andWeerasekara, K. A. W. S. (2008). Do feral populations of Poecilia reticulate ready to bring its overall efficacy as a mosquito bio-control agent or pose threats to aquatic biodiversity in Sri Lanka. National symposium on invasive alien species. Sri Lanka Association for Advancement of Science, National Science Foundation and Biodiversity Secretariat, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. 11th November 2008ri Lanka. 8pp.
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D. and Hitinayake, H.M.G.S.B. (2007). Structure and composition of the wetland ecosystem in the Tebuwana, Kalutara District, Thirteenth Annual Scientific Sessions, Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, June 2007, Colombo, Sri Lanka. 9pp

Publications - Books/ Chapters

  • Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment, 2019. Sri Lanka S. tatus Report on Sustainable Nitrogen Management. ISBN-978-955-8395-40-0. Book published by Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment (Contributing Author)

Publications - Paper Articles, Magazine, and other

  • Amarathunga, A.A.D., Fish kill incident at Aquatic environment and its impact. SayuruNetha Magazine, National Aquatic Resources Research & Development Agency, (01) volume 2. 20-22pp
  • Amarathunga, A.A.D., Why Sudden fish kills in aquatic environment. AsiriDiyawara, Dinamina news paper, 20 September 2018. 4-5pp.
  • NARA , 2017. Environmental Profile of Panama Lagoon. ISBN 978-955-8014-21-9. Book published by NARA (Study Group Leader)

Memberships in Professional Bodies

  • Founder member of the Sri Lanka Marine Forum
  • Life Member (ID-7887) – Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS), Section - D and Section B
  • Life Member - Sri Lanka Association for the Fish & Aquatic Resource (SLAFAR)
  • Life Member – Young Scientist Forum Sri Lanka
  • Life Member – Sri Lanka Soil Science Society
  • International Associate Membership– Japan Society on Water Environment (JSWE)