Asoka Barb (Systomas asoka)
Asoka barb is a highly endangered point endemic fish found in Sri Lanka restricted to a small section of Kelani River. Known as "Asoka pethiya" in native sinhala language, it grows to between 10cm and 17cm. It prefers fast flowing water about 1 to 2 meters deep.
Unfortunatrely, Asoka barb (Asoka Pethiya) may soon go extinct due to the proposed Kitulgala Mini hydro project. Former Environment Secretary of Sri Lanka, Mr. Anura Dissanayake, through a decision made on 11/11/2019, has approved the destructive Kitulgala mini-hydro project in its last and only remaining habitat.
Asoka pethiya, first reported by freshwater fish expert Mr. Asoka in the 1970s, is one of the five most endangered species named by the Department of Wildlife in Sri Lanka. According to experts only less than 1000 fish are now surviving just 800 metres above the proposed dam. Due to the change of the water quality, water level, and the water speed, the fish might lose the favourable habitat conditions and completely disappear from earth.
This is a prime example of why these important rivers and riverine ecosystems should be protected. Rainforest Protectors Trust is engaged in identifying and protecting the last remaining habitat of Sri Lanka's endemic and endangered freshwater fish, in an effort to prevent other species following the same path to extinction.
Unfortunatrely, Asoka barb (Asoka Pethiya) may soon go extinct due to the proposed Kitulgala Mini hydro project. Former Environment Secretary of Sri Lanka, Mr. Anura Dissanayake, through a decision made on 11/11/2019, has approved the destructive Kitulgala mini-hydro project in its last and only remaining habitat.
Asoka pethiya, first reported by freshwater fish expert Mr. Asoka in the 1970s, is one of the five most endangered species named by the Department of Wildlife in Sri Lanka. According to experts only less than 1000 fish are now surviving just 800 metres above the proposed dam. Due to the change of the water quality, water level, and the water speed, the fish might lose the favourable habitat conditions and completely disappear from earth.
This is a prime example of why these important rivers and riverine ecosystems should be protected. Rainforest Protectors Trust is engaged in identifying and protecting the last remaining habitat of Sri Lanka's endemic and endangered freshwater fish, in an effort to prevent other species following the same path to extinction.
