Pearl oysters depleting in Sri Lanka's sea

A recent survey conducted by the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences and Technology of the Ruhunu University of Sri Lanka point to the fact that the populace of the pearl oysters in the sea surrounding the island is depleting.



A research team led by Professor Ruchira Cumaranatunga of Marine Biology Department conducted the survey in Mannar Sea off the northwest coast of the island.

Prof. Cumaranatunga cites over-harvesting as the reason for the depletion of the oysters. Many other oysters including the ones that give conch shells are also threatened, she said.
Sri Lanka is world famous for pearl industry.