University of Sri Jayewardenepura: Journals & Proceedings
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Assessment of Mangrove Snail Diversity in Mangrove Ecosystems; A Case Study in Kandakuliya, Sri Lanka
No full textMangrove ecosystems play a crucial role in sustaining mangrove-associated snails by providing essential functions such as breeding habitats, nurseries, food sources, and protection from predators. They are also vital for nutrient cycling within mangrove ecosystems. Despite their importance, there has been limited research on mangrove snail diversity in Sri Lanka. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the diversity of snail species in the mangrove ecosystems along the western coast of Kandakuliya, Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka. A purposive sampling method was employed at five selected sites, with sampling conducted during low tide in the daytime across the dry (February) and wet (September) seasons of 2023. At each site, 30 m transects were laid out, with six 1 m² quadrats placed at 5 m intervals along the transect as replicates and soil samples within 10 cm depth were collected to observe the snail species. The study identified six snail species from three families, with Pirenella cingulata being the most widely distributed and abundant, particularly at site 3 followed by Telescopium telescopium and Terebralia palustris. The total abundance of Pirenella cingulata reached 85,840 individuals in m2. Pirenella cingulata also showed the highest number of individuals in both wet and dry seasons. Diversity indices showed that site 1 had the highest Shannon-Wiener index (H´=1.14), site 5 showed the highest Pielou’s evenness index (J=0.96), and site 1 had the highest Simpson’s diversity index (D=0.67). These variations in findings could be linked to water quality factors like temperature and dissolved oxygen, mangrove dominance and local climate conditions. The study suggests that incorporating environmental parameters could provide a more thorough understanding of how environmental variables affect the distribution of mangrove snail populations.
Keywords: Bioindicators, Mangrove-associated snails, Pirenella cingulata, Snail population, Western coast of Kandakuliy
Identification of Causal Organisms of Frequently Recorded Diseases of Lablab Beans (Lablab purpureus L.) in Sri Lanka
Get PDFLablab purpureus (L.) is an important leguminous crop that ensures food security. Despite being considered an underutilized crop in Sri Lanka, it is a promising climate-resilient crop with higher protein amounts. However, none of the studies on the diseases in this crop have been performed within the country. Our objective was to identify the diseases and management packages. The disease identification was conducted using the germplasm collection of L. purpureus established at the Horticultural Crops Research and Development Institute. Morphological character analyses of diseased plant samples were followed by culturing parts on a PDA medium to isolate pathogens. The pathogenicity of isolated pathogens was confirmed through standard procedures in Koch's postulate. Pathogen isolates were identified morphologically, and species-level identification was done by extracting genomic DNA and amplifying and sequencing ITS-1 and ITS-4 regions. NCBI BLAST analysis corroborated the results obtained from morphological observations and colony characteristics. This study's findings hold promise for identifying and managing diseases affecting L. purpureus in future cultivation. Under pathogenicity testing, there were 6% foot and root rot disease incidences, and 4% Charcoal rot (ash stem blight) disease incidences were recorded. The distinguishing symptoms of foot and root rot were yellowing, wilting, and basal rot with the presence of Sclerotia in the plant base and symptoms of charcoal rot were yellowing and browning of leaves, stem discoloration with characteristic black patches in root and stem. The causal organisms of foot and root rot were identified as Athelia rolfsii (Sclerotium rolfsii), and charcoal rot was identified as Macrophomina phasealina. With the use of literature and the use of poison food techniques, we developed two disease management packages for both diseases. For foot and root rot control; remove infected plants with soil, Crop rotation, or following, Spot application of recommended fungicides (Captan 50% WP, Thiram 80% WP, Thiophanate-methyl 50% + Thiram 30% WP), Improve the drainage at field preparation, Deep plowing and expose soil to the direct sunlight, Minimize the root damage, and Seed treatment (Captan 50% WP3g/1kg, Thiram 80% WP2g/1kg, thiophanate- methyl 50% + Thiram 30% WP2g/1kg). And also, for ash stem blight control; Following the field or crop rotation (recommended for at least 2yrs), Proper spacing with recommended plant density, Proper nutrient management, Improving the plant vigor, Flood the field 3-4 weeks before planting to destroy the pathogen, and cannot take efficient control by chemical control only.
Keywords: Athelia rolfsii, Charcoal rot, Foot and root rot, Lablab bean, Macrophomina phaseolin 
Detection and Quantification of Histamine in Canned Fish and Fish Products Purchased from Market
No full textHistamine is a biogenic amine responsible for regulatory and inflammatory functions in the human body. However, histamine can cause histamine fish poisoning within histamine intolerant individuals. Due to its heat stability, histamine can survive during thermal processing, posing a potential risk in canned products. In the Sri Lankan market, various canned fish and fish products, both locally manufactured and imported, are available for consumers. Due to their lower cost and extended shelf-life, they are more frequently consumed than fresh fish. This study aimed to detect and quantify histamine levels in various canned fish and fish products in the Sri Lankan market. A total of 9 canned fish products (in brine, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil) and 6 fish products (including tuna spread with mayonnaise and fish sauce) were analysed for histamine content. The samples included both imported and locally manufactured products within the same shelf-life. Histamine quantification was done using the HPLC-DAD system following 85% phosphate buffer solution and 15% acetonitrile with a C18 column. The correlation coefficient (R2) was 0.9938 for the histamine calibration curve. For sample preparation, 5 g of paste was taken from the collected samples, while 1 mL was taken from the fish sauce samples. Methanol was used for histamine extraction from the prepared samples. Triplicates were done for histamine extraction from each sample. Results showed that histamine was detected in tuna chunks in sunflower oil (14.34±2.68 mg/kg). Histamine was detected in tuna spread with mayonnaise (309.76±1.05 mg/kg) at high concentrations exceeding the FDA maximum histamine concentration of 200 mg/kg for fish products. Histamine was not detected in fish sauce and canned fish products in brine and rapeseed oil. Histamine may be present in those products, below the detection limit of 0.5 mg/kg. Canned fish products contained a safe level of histamine (<100 mg/kg). This study highlights that even in canned fish products and fish products, whether they are produced according to good manufacturing practices, even histamine can be present in those products. The water activity and composition of mayonnaise, which includes ingredients such as eggs and oil, can serve as a growth medium for histamine producing bacteria. This may explain the detection of high histamine concentrations in tuna spread containing mayonnaise. However, consumption of large quantities of these products might pose health risks for histamine intolerant individuals with allergic reactions.
Keywords: Canned fish, Fish products, Histamine, HPLC-DAD system, Sri Lank
The Usage of Household Polythene and Plastics in Kirinda Puhulwella Pradeshiya Sabha, Matara
No full textPlastic is one of the globally used versatile, synthetic polymers which includes many negative impacts despite their benefits. Due to its higher availability, it has been used widely in society and finally causes many negative impacts on humans, animals and the environment due to improper disposal techniques followed by the community. Therefore, the present study focused on identifying and evaluating household polythene and plastic usage, disposal practices and public perception of plastics in Kirinda Puhulwella Pradeshiya Sabha in Matara District, Sri Lanka. The study area has been divided into three zones urban, semi-urban and rural based on factors such as available infrastructure, transport facilities and population density. A questionnaire with six major sections including personal information, nature of the usage of plastics and polythene, disposal of plastics and polythene, identifying issues related to the usage of plastics and polythene, controlling the usage of plastic and polythene usage, public feedback on the regional program and governmental efforts for controlling has been deployed to identify plastic waste disposal methods and awareness. 150 participants were interviewed to represent all three zones in the study area and weights of plastic wastes were taken using a digital handheld scale. The study revealed that shopping bags are the most used plastic item (137 respondents) due to higher availability (40%) and lack of other alternatives (39%) in the study area. LDPE was the most used plastic type (18.5%) in the study area (0.27±0.11 kg/month/house unit) while PET was the least (8%) consumed type (0.12 ± 0.11 kg/month/house unit). Around 90% of participants had sound knowledge of the consequences of improper disposal of plastics but most of them practice burning (54%) and burying (27%) as main disposal techniques. Further, correlations were identified between plastic usage and disposal patterns concerning participants' occupational status and educational level. Plastic waste generation was moderately proportional to the educational level (p=0.028) and also to the type of occupation (p=0.01) in the study area. Short-term and long-term recommendations such as providing proper infrastructure facilities and permanent plastic waste collecting programs under feasibility studies, accepting segregated waste, focusing on attitudinal behaviours of specific communities, tightening existing rules and regulations and investing in research and developments were made based on the results of the study.
Keywords: Polythene and plastic, Disposal, Perception, Awarenes
Epiphytic Cryptogams in the Beraliya-Elpitiya Forest Reserve: Diversity Patterns across Successional Stages
Get PDFEpiphytic cryptogams, which include algae, fungi, lichens, bryophytes and ferns, are vital components of tropical rainforests, contributing to ecosystem functions such as nutrient cycling, moisture retention, and serving as bio-indicators of forest health. This study focused on the diversity of epiphytic cryptogams in the Beraliya-Elpitiya Forest Reserve (6º19'–6º20' N, 80º10'–80º11' E), located in Pituwala, Sri Lanka. This research aims to assess species diversity and the influence of environmental factors on cryptogamic diversity. Field surveys were conducted across various microhabitats, including tree trunks (from base to DBH), from three different forest successional stages: early, intermediate, and late using stratified random sampling method. Collected samples were identified using taxonomic keys through morphological characters. Environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and precipitation were recorded to understand their impact on species diversity. A total of 70 cryptogam species were collected, consisting of five lichen species, four fungi species, 59 bryophyte species, and two fern species. When comparing the Shannon index values of each successional stage, the late successional stage had the highest Shannon index. Higher values of H' represented the greater epiphytic cryptogamic diversity. Therefore, the late successional stage in the Beraliya-Elpitiya Forest Reserve showed the highest diversity when compared to the early and intermediate stages. A one-way ANOVA was conducted to compare the three successional stages. There was a significant effect of the successional stage on diversity at the p<0.05 level for the three conditions [F(2, 6) = 6262.57, p =1.098e-10]. These results suggested that the successional stage significantly impacts on the epiphytic cryptogamic diversity. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the strength and direction of associations between temperature, precipitation, humidity, and species diversity in the Beraliya-Elpitiya Forest Reserve. The analysis revealed a negative correlation between temperature and species diversity and the precipitation and humidity positively correlated with species diversity. This research highlights the importance of conserving tropical forest habitats, as epiphytic cryptogams are sensitive to environmental changes, including deforestation, climate change, and habitat fragmentation. The findings provide preliminary data for future biodiversity monitoring and ecological studies in this region. Protecting the cryptogamic diversity of the Beraliya-Elpitiya Forest Reserve is significant for maintaining the overall health and resilience of this tropical rainforest ecosystem.
Keywords: Cryptogams, Diversity, Ecosystem, Impact, Successional stage
First Records of Coral Killing Cyanobacteriosponge Terpios hoshinota within the Marine Sensitive Reef Ecosystem in Pasikuda Bay, East Coast of Sri Lanka
No full textCoral reefs are a crucial ecosystem supporting marine biodiversity, yet they are increasingly threatened by various anthropogenic, biotic and abiotic factors. Among these, the coral-killing cyanobacteriosponge Terpios hoshinota has emerged as a significant concern due to its ability to overgrow and cover live coral colonies. This study records the first confirmed occurrence of T. hoshinota in multiple locations within Pasikuda Bay - east coast of Sri Lanka contributing to new data on its geographical range. Field reef assessment survey conducted during 01st to 06th October 2024 in Pasikuda identified several patches of this sponge overgrowing healthy coral species, particularly Acropora, Porites and Montipora. Infestation extent was assessed with opportunistic observation sampling conducted, indicating that approximately 0.2% of coral cover in a 30m X 100m belt is covered by T. hoshinota. The presence of T. hoshinota poses an additional threat to these already vulnerable coral communities, which are subject to climate change/ bleaching events, and localized anthropogenic stressors. Within reef sections, older infestations of the sponge showed signs of natural suppression by reef associating algal growth. This suggests that ecosystem dynamics are suppressing the overdominance to a certain extent managing the invasion of the sponge. Increased turbidity within the off season, might be suppressing the spread of T. hoshinota. Reliance on light for photosynthesis has been utilized in pilot studies in several tropical countries, where the invasion has been controlled preventing the photosynthesis. Two 2cm T. hoshinota infested coral fragments were placed in a sea water filled container and introduced to pharmaceutical grade hydrogen peroxide and chlorine (used for pool water treatment) to observe the reactivity. Both the chemicals showed positive signs of sponge killing properties in controlled conditions even applied in low concentration. Further studies are required to assess the sponge's distribution, seasonality, and its impact on healthy reef ecosystems in order to evaluate if chemical treatment is necessary to control the invasion. Further research will reveal seasonal dynamics, distribution, and ecological impact of this sponge, as well as to assess the feasibility of chemical interventions for larger-scale management. Continuous monitoring and regional assessments might be necessary in addressing emerging marine threats to biodiversity including T. hoshinota within the region or even on a country level. The assessment was conducted as a part of marine special mapping of Pasikuda Bay with the assistance from Browns Hotels and Resorts in collaboration with USAID Sri Lanka.
Keywords: Terpios hoshinota, Cyanobacteriosponge, Coral reef degradation, Marine ecosystem
Evaluating University Building Performance in Northeast Nigeria through Sustainable Facilities Management
Get PDFThe need for sustainability assessments in the built environment is growing due to the rapid changes in the environment as a result of global climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation. Therefore, the study aims to establish a comprehensive model that considers sustainability principles when evaluating the facilities performance of university buildings in the North-East region of Nigeria. The study adopted a quantitative approach, and the target population comprises 200 building users (staff of works and maintenance departments) across the federal universities in six states of Northeast, Nigeria. The analysis was conducted using multiple regression analysis. The result revealed that strategies' effectiveness significantly affects sustainable building facilities performance indicators, where maintenance management was identified as the most significant FM indicator in terms of performance with R2 value of 56.7%. Subsequently, the energy efficiency indicator with an R2 value of 55.6%, water management with R2 value of 51.9%, and indoor environmental quality performed least with R2 value of 43.7%. The study recommended that universities in the region should invest in sustainable technologies and infrastructure, such as energy-efficient lighting systems, renewable energy sources, water-saving fixtures, and advanced building management systems. These investments can significantly reduce operational costs and improve the overall sustainability performance of university buildings
Antecedents of Continuance Usage of Omnichannel Retailling: Refer to Younger Generation in Sri Lanka
Get PDFOmnichannel retailing provides opportunity to move across both online and physical channels seamlessly while getting the same experience. There are high potentials of using omnichannel approaches however, consumers’ intention of continuous usage of omnichannel in Asian countries are very rare. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors influencing younger generations’ intention of continuance usage of omnichannel retailing in Sri Lanka. The study used deductive approach followed with explanatory research design. Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) model was utilized to identify the influencing factors. 450 younger adults in Western province represented as the sample. Out of 437 responses were received, 265 respondents were highly intended to use omnichannel retailing. Results revealed that performance expectancy is the significant leading predictor, followed by hedonic motivation. Effort expectancy, social influence, habit, personal innovativeness and perceived security had significant positive relationship with continue intention to use omnichannel retailing. To leverage social connections to drive purchasing decisions, implementation of social media strategies, influencer marketing, and user-generated content to create a sense of community and encourage social validation are suggested areas for the retailers. The present study provide the consumer’s viewpoint on the omnichannel shopping behavior and performed a multidimensional analysis to describe continuance usage intention behavior of omnichannel customers. It also contributes to the field of information technology by empirically investigating the influence of technology acceptance factors on continuance usage intention behavior and also confirmed that UTAUT 2 model is valid in the omnichannel retailing context in developing country. 
Man, Woman, or Both? Shakespeare’s Treatment of Androgyny and Lady Macbeth’s Disempowerment
Get PDFAndrogyny is a concept that has been given comparatively little thought, particularly concerning its impact on Shakespeare’s work. While some have evidently looked at Shakespeare’s treatment of gender, the interest concerning androgyny or transverse nature has been limited. However, in the wake of gender studies and feminism in the late 20th century, androgyny garnered popularity among Shakespeare scholars. Since the 1980s, scholars have begun to view Shakespeare as an androgynous writer and continue to argue that he wrote from a gendered point of view. Suffused with Renaissance gender ideals, Shakespeare’s characters are often depicted with intricate sexual moralities and gender identities worth pursuing. Lady Macbeth emerges as one such character whose dichotomy with gender has paved the way for controversial analyses of her character. Hence, this research has attempted to unravel how androgynous nature affects Lady Macbeth’s character in Shakespeare’s play Macbeth (1606) and how it leads to her eventual disempowerment within the play. With the aid of comprehensive textual analysis, this research has found that Lady Macbeth’s androgynous nature reduces her role in the play and disables her empowerment, espousing the idea that androgyny in Lady Macbeth results in her ultimate downfall which culminates in her insanity and suicide. Therefore, this research has attempted to take a fresh look at Shakespeare’s Lady Macbeth, viewing her beyond a power-crazed matriarch and positioning her as a woman whose troubled conscience has created her identity dilemma in the play.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.31357/fhss/vjhss.v10i01.0
Evaluating the Influence of Employee Satisfaction and Productivity on Individual Performance in Shared Workspaces: Insights from Western Province, Sri Lanka
Get PDFThis study focused on evaluating the influence of employee satisfaction and productivity on individual performance in shared workspaces in private office sector in Sri Lanka, particularly in Colombo MC area. Adopting the quantitative research methodology, data was collected from 100 shared workspaces employees through a self-administered questionnaire, along with the secondary data. The analysis utilized Smart PLS SEM approach. The findings revealed that employee satisfaction and productivity has a significant positive relationship with individual performance in shared workspaces. The results of the Smart PLS SEM approachconfirmed the significant impact of employee satisfaction and productivity on individual performance in shared workspaces. The interpreted results uncover how interactions in shared workspaces affect employee outcomes, guiding the creation of supportive environments. This research offers valuable insights into workspace design and decision-making, establishing a basis for improving their impact on organizational performance through supportive and efficient work environments