University of Sri Jayewardenepura: Journals & Proceedings
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Monitoring Faecal Testosterone Levels across Antler Development Stages in Spotted Deer (Axis axis) in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka
Get PDFThis study explores the variations in faecal testosterone concentrations across different antler development stages in spotted deer (Axis axis) within Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, from 2022 to 2024. Ten faecal samples were collected from individual deer at each of the five defined antler stages: Pedicel Formation, Velvet, Velvet Shedding, Hard Antler, and Casting. These faecal samples were collected by tracking the herd and using the hand-and-glove method within 30 minutes of defecation. Testosterone metabolites were analysed using a validated methanol-based radioimmunoassay (RIA) technique. Statistical evaluations, including one-way ANOVA and Tukey's Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test, were performed to determine hormonal differences across these stages. Results demonstrated significant testosterone variations (p<0.05) between antler stages, with the highest concentrations recorded during the Velvet Shedding (12.91±0.89 ng/g) and Hard Antler (11.25±1.03 ng/g) phases, aligning with peak reproductive activity. In contrast, the Velvet (3.80±0.64 ng/g) and Casting (2.02±0.55 ng/g) stages exhibited lower testosterone levels, indicating reduced reproductive function. These findings illustrate the critical link between antler development and reproductive physiology, highlighting testosterone’s role in social dominance and mating behaviour. Understanding these hormonal dynamics provides insight into the reproductive strategies of spotted deer, with implications for effective wildlife management and conservation efforts. Future research should focus on the influence of environmental factors on testosterone regulation, particularly in the context of urbanization and habitat alteration.
Keywords: Testosterone, Spotted deer, Antler development, Reproductive cycle, Wildlife conservatio
Hydrological and Water Quality Impacts of Climate Variability and Land-Use Change: A Case Study of the Muda River Catchment
No full textLand-use changes, driven by development and climate variability, particularly extreme rainfall and drought, significantly affect river water quantity and quality. This study assesses the impacts of these changes on the upstream catchment of the Muda River (499 km²) using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. Data collection included hourly water level measurements and water sampling from May 2018 to April 2019, taken every hour from 9 am to 5 pm for two weeks each month. Peak discharge was recorded on September 29, 2018, at 9:00 am (45.305 m³/s), while the lowest was on July 23, 2018, at 11:00 am (4.2954 m³/s), with an average discharge rate of 1.236 Mm³/day from April to October 2018. The catchment displayed "flashy" characteristics, with rapid increases in discharge in response to rain events. Water quality was measured using in-situ methods. Average values were as follows: electrical conductivity (50.34 μS/cm, Class I), total dissolved solids (31.87 mg/L, Class IIA), water temperature (26.14°C, Class IIA), nitrate concentration (4.70 mg/L, Class III), pH (7.08), turbidity (130.29 NTU, Class IV/V), and total suspended solids (87.87 mg/L, Class III). Turbidity was the only parameter showing significant seasonal variation (p<0.001), while no notable differences were observed in water quality between pre- and post-logging years. These findings indicate that water quantity and quality in this catchment are more strongly influenced by climate variability than by land-use changes. Five SWAT model simulations were conducted to evaluate different land-use and climate change scenarios. Scenario S1 yielded optimal discharge and water balance, reflecting the highest water storage rate, essential for future use, while Scenario S5 showed the lowest. In scenarios involving development, simulations S2 and S3 demonstrated no significant differences in discharge and water balance. Surface runoff remained low across scenarios, likely due to forest cover, though it is projected to rise by 25% by 2050 (reaching 4293 mm) due to anticipated rainfall increases. These results suggest that preserving the catchment is vital to maintaining water storage, as disturbances or changes could lead to excess water accumulation, elevating flood risks downstream in the Muda River catchment. In conclusion, climate change factors appear to have a greater impact on water quantity and quality than land-use changes in the Muda River catchment. To mitigate future flood risks and protect water resources, it is recommended that forested areas within the catchment be preserved, minimizing disturbances that could increase surface runoff and downstream flooding.
Keywords: Climate variability, Land use change, Water quality, SWAT modelling, Muda River Catchmen
The Implication of Landscape Composition, Landscape Configuration, and Climatic Factors on the Variation of Pavo cristatus (Indian Peafowl) Density in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka
Get PDFIndian peafowl (Pavo cristatus) which was predominantly found in the arid regions of the country, have been observed venturing into the wetter zones in recent times, raising significant concerns on potential threats to crops in the Southern Province. In the present study landscape composition, landscape configuration and climatic variables were recognized as potential contributing factors to the variation of Indian peafowl density and were investigated in croplands of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, which encompasses the wet, dry and intermediate zones, characterized by diverse landscapes and unique ecological features. The density of Indian peafowl was determined using fixed-width strip-transect surveys conducted between September 2023 to February 2024 in 25 sampling plots (4×4 km). Sentinel-2 L2A satellite images of the study area acquired from Landviewer were classified into six land use and land cover (LULC) classes using Maximum Likelihood (ML) classification in ArcMap 10.8. Landscape composition factors including percentages of forest cover, natural vegetation cover, crop cover, built-up areas, and patch diversity were assessed, alongside landscape configuration factors such as forest patch density, largest patch index for forest cover, and forest patch cohesion for each sampling plot to examine their influence on peafowl density. The associations of the Indian peafowl density with landscape composition and configuration data obtained from the ML classification and climatic data acquired from Chelsa V2.1 were assessed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models (glmmTMB package in R). Among the landscape composition factors examined, the percentage croplands related positively (GLMM: β±SE=0.066±0.01, p=0.001), while the percentage built-up areas showed a negative relationship with the peafowl density (GLMM: β±SE=-0.111±0.01, p=0.018). From the landscape configuration attributes tested, forest patch density showed a significant positive relationship with peafowl density (GLMM: β±SE=7.111±2.83, p=0.012). A significant negative relationship was found between annual average precipitation and peafowl density (GLMM: β±SE=-0.003±0.01, p=0.006). The landscape changes in the Southern Province, particularly the reduction in forest patch density and the increase in built-up areas, appear to be key drivers influencing shifts in peafowl populations towards wet zone areas. The findings of this study suggest the relevance of land-use planning and management in controlling peafowl populations for mitigating conflicts between peafowl and humans.
Keywords: Indian peafowl, Landscape composition, Landscape configuration, Climate, Southern provinc
Assessment of Forest Health in the Horton Plains National Park in Relation to Possible Forest Dieback and Recovery
Get PDFDieback of the upper montane forest in the Horton Plains (HNP) has been reported since 1970s. While some visual patches of dieback are observed, there have been limited systematic assessments on the underlying status of the forest, especially in areas which do not show widespread tree death. Here, our objective was to quantify the current health status of the forest in HNP via a comprehensive tree-level assessment scheme. For this purpose, we developed a ‘dieback index (DBI)’ based on visual assessment of, (a) percentage of defoliation and (b) presence of abnormalities (disease symptoms, physical damage, yellowing etc.) in the foliage canopy plus (c) the extent of stem damage in each individual tree of DBH≥5 cm in 24 sampling plots (25 m×25 m) within four main plots of 3750 m2, distributed equally on eastern and western slopes of HNP. Based on defoliation and leaf abnormalities, the health status of the foliage canopy of each tree was ranked from 1 (healthy) to 6 (dead). Similarly, health status of each tree stem was ranked on a 1 (<10% of surface area below 1.5 m height damaged) to 6 (>75% damaged) scale. For each tree, a combined rank on a 1-6 scale was given based on the combination of leaf and stem ranks. A dieback score for each tree was given based on the combined rank as: rank 1-0%; 2-20%; 3-40%; 4-60%; 5-80% and 6-100%. Finally, a dieback index (DBI) for each 25 m×25 m plot was computed as the sum of dieback scores of its trees weighed by the fraction of trees within each combined rank. A vegetation survey during August-October 2023 showed that plot-wise DBI, which could range from 0 (healthy) to 100 (dead), varied significantly (p<0.001) among the four main plots. The two main plots on the eastern slope of HNP showed significantly (p<0.05) higher mean DBI (51.40 and 45.43) than the two plots on the western slope (35.57 and 37.91). At the plot level, DBI varied from 28.82 to 54.40 and showed a significant (p<0.05) negative linear relationship with canopy leaf area index as measured by hemispherical photography in each plot. Canopy openness, measured as the visible sky fraction of each hemispheric image, showed a significant (p<0.05) positive linear relationship with DBI. These relationships validated DBI as a measure of health status of the forest, which can be used in future assessments of forest health and dieback status at HNP.
Keywords: Horton Plains, Dieback index, Forest health, Leaf area inde
Characterization and Application of Serratia marcescens and Sporosarcina luteola in the Biodegradation of Soil Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons for Sustainable Soil Management
No full textPolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are prominent soil pollutants found at waste disposal sites and pose significant environmental and health challenges due to their persistent toxicity and potential carcinogenic effects. This study investigates the biodegradation potential of Serratia marcescens and Sporosarcina luteola, with the accession number PQ082967 and PQ002182, which were isolated from contaminated soil, in effectively degrading PAHs, specifically anthracene and pyrene, without releasing harmful intermediates into the environment. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis confirmed the levels of PAHs in the environment, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate remediation strategies to mitigate the risks associated with these pollutants. To promote the utilization of PAHs as the sole carbon source, bacterial starvation was conducted using Bacto-Bushnell Haas (BBH) agar, which lacks carbon sources. This method encouraged the bacteria to adapt and utilize the PAHs present in the environment effectively. The bacterial growth observed on the agar plates indicated efficient degradation of PAHs, further confirmed by spectrometric analysis. The results showed a significant reduction in absorbance, which was measured at a wavelength of 609nm, indicating successful decomposition, as the redox indicator methylene blue transitioned from blue to colorless, reflecting the metabolic activity of the bacteria in breaking down the contaminants. Antagonistic activity assays validated the compatibility of the bacterial strains, establishing a healthy foundation for their potential consortium application in compost-based bioremediation strategies. Additionally, antibiotic susceptibility tests demonstrated that the strains were inhibited by various antibiotics, enhancing safety and efficacy in their selection for environmental applications. Subsequent molecular analyses, including PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, and Sanger sequencing, successfully identified Serratia marcescens strain MV21428 and Sporosarcina luteola strain MV7677 as promising PAH degraders. Gram staining characterized these strains as gram-negative cocci and gram-positive rods, respectively, further informing their classification. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close evolutionary relationships with known PAH-degrading strains, underscoring their relevance in bioremediation efforts. Toxicity assessments, employing brine shrimp (Artemia salina) and mung seeds (V. radiata), indicated that both strains are non-toxic to aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Remarkably, mung seedlings grown in compost containing the bacterial consortia reached an average length of 18.2 cm, denoting a significant improvement in soil quality. These findings affirm that Serratia marcescens strain MV21428 and Sporosarcina luteola strain MV7677 can serve as environmentally safe agents for the bioremediation of PAH pollution, enhancing soil health and promoting plant growth. The study concluded their potential application in sustainable environmental management practices, aiming for a cleaner and healthier ecosystem.
Keywords: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, Serratia marcescens, Sporosarcina luteola, Biodegradation, HPL
Human-Crocodile Conflict in the Nilwala River Basin: Socio-Economic Impacts on Flood-Prone Communities
Get PDFThis study investigates the socio-economic impacts of human-crocodile conflict in the Nilwala River Basin, focusing on flood-prone areas such as Kadduwa, Karagoda, Uyangoda, Kirabha Ara, and Paraduwa. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 100 households located in flood-prone areas. Focus group discussions were also held with victims of crocodile attacks and community members. Frequent crocodile encounters, particularly during flooding events, have significantly disrupted agricultural activities of farmers. The number of 11 victims who were severely injured by crocodile attacks experienced long-term physical and financial hardship, being unable to return to normal life, work or farming. Moreover, out of recorded crocodile attacks, 47 were on domestic animals such as dogs and cattle, while 12 cases led to human fatalities, further heightening fear and insecurity within the affected communities. Qualitative analysis of the data revealed recurring socio-economic challenges due to crocodile attacks, including medical expenses, psychological trauma, and a loss in productivity of cattle farming. Despite the negative impact of crocodile attacks, there is a benefit for local tourism as 60% of interviewees specified that crocodile sightings during boat rides along the Nilwala River have attracted foreign tourists, generating a new source of income for the community. The study highlights the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies to address human-crocodile conflicts. These should include community awareness programs to minimize the risk of encounters while ensuring crocodile conservation, as the species is protected and plays a crucial ecological role. The study findings have further shown the importance of policies to ensure human safety, economic well-being, and wildlife conservation, supporting sustainable development in the Nilwala River Basin.
Keywords: Human-crocodile conflict, Socio-economic impacts, Nilwala River, Flood-prone areas, Crocodile conservatio
Impact of Green HRM Practices on Organizational Sustainability: A Study of the Public Sector Banking in Sri Lanka
Get PDFThe purpose of this research is to investigate impact of Green Human Resource Management practices have on the organizational sustainability operating within the public banking sector of Sri Lanka. The research makes use of a quantitative technique, which is aligned with a positivist perspective and is driven by Saunders' research onion theory. The data was collected through a survey that utilized a structured questionnaire that was distributed to a sample of 132 banking employees.These individuals were picked from a population of around 200.The sampling method used was convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics, Validity, Reliability, Correlation and regression testing were utilized in order to investigate the connections that exist between the various Green Human Resource Management practices, which include Green Recruitment, Green Training and Development, Green Reward Management, Green Performance Management, and Green Empowerment, and the preservation of the organization's sustainability. Data was analysed by using SPSS (21.0). Based on the data, it can be concluded that Green Recruitment and Green Empowerment practices have a large and beneficial impact on the sustainability of organizations, however Green Reward Management techniques have Negative impact. However, there is no evidence that green training and development strategies, as well as green performance management practices, have a substantial impact. The findings provide public banks in Sri Lanka with useful insights that can be used to improve their human resource management strategies, which will ultimately contribute to increased organizational sustainability
Significance of Sustainable Coffee Production in Sri Lanka Aligning with EU Standards for Market Access and Environmental Resilience
Get PDFCoffee is one of the world's most popular beverages made from the seeds of the tropical coffee plant and global consumption is 2.25 billion cups per day. There is over 70 countries manufacturing coffee and two genre is most important to the coffee industry are Arabica and Robusta. Indeed, the global coffee industry faces significant challenges including fluctuating production costs due to land scarcity, labor unavailability, water scarcity and environmental impacts. This study emphasizes need of manage climate variability , effectively improve production and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers while maintaining environmental integrity and sustainability in line with EU standards to gain European market access for Sri Lankan coffee. Indeed, Sri Lankan coffee can access the European market by managing the variables of coffee variety diversification, water management, exploration of new territory, soil conservation, research and development, cooperation and networking and market access
Evaluating Predominant Construction Methods for Key Building Elements in Sri Lankan Residential Constructions
Get PDFThe residential construction industry in Sri Lanka demonstrates a clear preference for specific construction technologies and materials used in building. This study explores the Construction methods of Sri Lankan residential buildings, focusing on the cultural and economic importance of housing as a reflection of social status. The research examines key building elements such as roofs, walls, floors, and foundations, uncovering significant trends in material selection and construction methods. The findings reveal a strong preference for traditional masonry techniques in external and internal walls, as well as concrete floors, indicating a standardized approach to these core components. In contrast, roof and foundation types exhibit greater diversity, suggesting more flexibility in their construction. The study emphasizes the enduring influence of local practices and resource availability, offering insights into the construction landscape in Sri Lanka and its balance between tradition and modernity
Real Estate Management and Valuation in Afghanistan: Challenges and Opportunities
Get PDFThis study specifically addresses the stagnation of the Afghan real estate sector due to the ongoing instability in legal, economic, and socio-political factors, which have obstructed sustainable development. Using a mixedmethods approach, the research combines a comprehensive literature review with primary data from interviews and surveys conducted with key stakeholders. The findings reveal substantial obstacles, including an inconsistent legal framework, pervasive security issues, and economic volatility, all of which hinder the sector's growth. However, opportunities for development are identified in urbanization trends, large-scale infrastructure projects, and potential legal reforms. The study concludes that addressing these challenges through targeted strategies— such as legal reforms, enhanced security measures, and economic stabilization efforts—could unlock the sector's potential, thereby contributing to Afghanistan's broader economic development and stabilit