WNPS Monthly Lecture: Around the Pearl in 30 Days

By Dr. Prabath Jayasinghe This month's lecture, Into the Blue Unknown: Unveiling the Hidden Life of Sri Lanka's Ocean, presents a rare first-hand account of the landmark voyage around Sri Lanka aboard the Research Vessel Dr. Fridtjof Nansen, one of the world’s most advanced marine research vessels. Drawing on findings from a comprehensive survey conducted across Sri Lanka's Exclusive Economic Zone, the presentation brings to life discoveries of hidden marine species, the advanced technologies used to explore and understand our seas, and the implications of these findings for conservation, fisheries management, and the long-term stewardship of our ocean resources. The lecture is delivered by Dr. Prabath Jayasinghe, Principal Scientist and Head of the Marine Biological Resources Division at NARA. With over 25 years of research experience, he has led major national and international marine survey programs, represented Sri Lanka at the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission Scientific Committee, coordinated the Sri Lanka–Norway Bilateral Fisheries Project, and authored more than 30 peer-reviewed scientific publications. This is an extraordinary journey into one of Sri Lanka's last great frontiers—the ocean—revealing both the deep scientific interest it continues to inspire and the remarkable life it holds within.