Pearl Oyster population in danger

Disna MUDALIGE

The catching of Pearl Oysters without a limit has endangered oyster population in the country, Ruhunu University Fisheries and Marine Sciences and Technology Faculty Senior Lecturer Ruchira Cumaranatunga told the Daily News.

"Conch shells and Sea cucumbers have been collected in Mannar in the North for many years without allowing their reproduction. As a result, its population has decreased considerably. In the past, Sri Lanka was considered a country that was home to the world's best pearls. But now mostly what we can find are small half grown pearl oysters," she pointed out.

"Large numbers of Pearl Oysters were seized from foreigners who came to Sri Lanka in the past. But we still continue to catch oysters. This is dangerous for the ecosystem. When one link in the nature's chain is removed, it disturbs the whole ecosystem," she noted.

She suggested that a proper biological study should be carried out regarding the existing population of pearl oysters, and regulations for their protection should be introduced.

"The Authorities must prohibit the collection of small pearl oysters. Legislation can be introduced to prevent the collection of pearl oysters that is below the 50 percent maturity length.

"Officers must be placed to fine those who break this rule," she said.

"In the past, we also supplied pearls for the British Crown. Now there is no such industry in the country due to the drop in the pearl oyster population. If we can introduce proper management practices we will be able to conserve the existing population, while facilitating reproduction," she added.