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Department of
ZOOLOGY
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Prof. Saminda P. Fernando

BSc (Honors). , MPhil (Colombo), PhD (Colombo), M.I.Biol (SL)

Professor in Zoology

Department of Zoology
  • Central Campus, Ground floor, Science and Technology building, Room No : 017
  • 011-2881446, 011-2881488/0112881090, Ext: 488/590, 475 Mobile: 718441883
  • hdzoo@ou.ac, saminda@ou.ac.lk samijaela@yahoo.com

Parasitology

  • Senior Lecturer grade I in Zoology at the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka (Nov 2021 to date)
  • Head of the Department, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka (June 2022 to date).
  • Senior Lecturer grade II in Zoology at the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka (Dec 2015 to Oct 2021).
  • Director Physical Education Unit of the Open University Of Sri Lanka (March 2019 to date) Served as the Acting Director/ Physical Education unit of the Open University of Sri Lanka (15.09.2018 to 06.02.2020).
  • Probationary Lecturer in Zoology at the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka (Nov 2010 to Nov 2015).
  • Temporary Lecturer in Zoology at The Open University of Sri Lanka from (Feb – Oct 2010).
  • Senior Research Assistant at the Wilderness & Wildlife Conservation Trust (WWCT) of Sri Lanka from (Nov 2009 to Jan 2010).
  • Demonstrator (Teaching Assistant) at the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka from (Nov 2007 to Oct 2009).
  • Research Assistant (part time) at the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka from (Nov 2008 to Nov 2009) (Grant No. RG/2008/EB/3).
  • Research Assistant at the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka from (Nov 2005 to Nov 2007) (Grant No. NSF/ Fellow/ 2005/1).

Head of the Department, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka (June 2022 to date).

Bachelor of Science Programme-
ZYU5302/ZLU3182-Conservation and Management of Biodiversity
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer

ZYU5314- Fundamental of Ornithology
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer

ZYU5304- Parasitology
Junior Academic coordinator and conducted practical

ZLU5304 – Parasitology
Conducted practical

ZYU5305-Human Biology
Junior Academic coordinator and conducted practical

ZLU5304 – Human Biology
Conducted practical

Bachelor of Science Special (Honors’) Degree Programme-

ZYU6306- Advanced Ornithology
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer

ZYU6303 Molecular Biology
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer

ZYU6310- Wildlife Conservation and Management
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer

ZLU4285-Advanced Laboratory techniques
Day School Lecturer and Practical conducted

Master of Science in Environmental Science Programme-

ZYPA303- Protected Area Planning and Management
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer, field practical class

ZYPA602- Biodiversity Conservation and Management
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer, field practical class

MSc in Medical Entomology and Applied Parasitology Programme-

ZYP9306-Diagnostic Parasitology
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer, Lab Practical conducted

Diploma in Natural Resources & Ecotourism

ZYD3383-Natural Resources, Bio Diversity & Wildlife Conservation in Sri Lanka
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer, Practical conducted

Advanced certificate in wildlife conservation and management Programme-

ZYC2304-Project study
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer, Practical conducted

ZYC2605-Wildlife study techniques
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer, Practical conducted

ZYC2306-Wildlife management case study
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer, Practical conducted

Certificate in Laboratory Technology Programme

PSC 1221- Basic Biology for Laboratory Practice
Academic coordinator and Day School Lecturer, Practical conducted

  1. Supervision of undergraduate projects at the Department of Zoology, OUSL
    • Effects of environmental enrichment on behaviour patterns of Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) in captivity (2022- to date)
    • Chemical and behavioural characterization of pheromones of Boiga ceylonensis and their potential uses (2022- to date) Variation of Mobbing and call patterns of Yellow billed babbler (Turdoides affinis) induced by predators in different land used systems (2021-2022)
    • Evolutionary relationships of subgroups of the Yellow-billed babbler (Turdoides affinis taprobanus) in Sri Lanka (2021-2022).
    • Biomonitoring of toxic metals in the yellow billed babbler in selected landscapes in Sri Lanka with a conservation perspective (2021-2022)
    • The aspects of behavioural response of Red-Wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus) in different environmental conditions: urban, semi-urban and natural (2019 to 2020).
    • Morphological and Molecular taxonomy of the Amphistomes occurring in the gastrointestinal tract of the wild elephants in Sri Lanka (2019 to 2020).
    • eleAlert- A sensor for detecting elephant intrusions at boundary villages (2019 to 2020).
    • Spatial and temporal variation of habitat relations and genetic variation in Elephas maximus maximus in Maduru Oya National Park (2018-2019).
    • Fish species composition and diversity variations in Kala Oya river basin with relation to environmental conditions (2018-2019)
  2. Supervision of undergraduate projects at the Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences, University of Colombo
    • THE APPLICABILITY OF E-DNA METABARCODING ASSAY IN SRI LANKA USING FRESHWATER VERTEBRATES AS A MODEL (2021-2022).
    • A study of gastrointestinal parasites in the wild, urban, sub urban and captive populations of macaque (Macaca sinica) species and the genetic diversity among sub species level of macaque in Sri Lanka (2019-2020).
    • The effect of Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) exposure in Quails (Coturnix coturnix) (2019-2020). Characterizing Buffalo Populations using Morphology, Morphometrics, Behaviour and Genetic Composition (2019-2020).
    • A study on Sri Lankan saw scaled viper (Echis carinatus sinhaleyus) phylogeny, venom composition and venom neutralizing efficacy by Indian polyvalent anti-venom (2018-2019).
  3. Supervision of Postgraduate projects at the OUSL
    • Analysis of the Threats on Protecting Muthurajawala Wetland Sanctuary (2020 2021)
    • Impact of Ecosystem assessment in sub urban wetland in Athurugiriya due to road construction 2020-2021) Case study on awareness of animal welfare among commercial safari drivers in Yala National Park (Block 01) (2020-2021)
    • Diversity, distribution and habitat relationships of avifauna in natural landscape and human altered land use types in Kandy District, Sri Lanka (2017).
  4. Supervision of Postgraduate projects at the UOC
    • Investigating succession changes in an early ecological restoration site in the buffer zone of a tropical lowland rainforest, Southwest Sri Lanka (2022 to date)

OUSL- Sesstions:

Author for following sessions of the BSc Programme: Level 5 (ZYU5310) of The Open University of Sri Lanka (2020).

 

  • Evolutionary biology
  • Session 15: Genetic basis of speciation
  • Session 16: Phylogenetic approach in evolutionary biology

 

 

Author for following sessions of the Foundation Certificate Programme in Science: Level 2 (BZF 2208/ Biology II) of The Open University of Sri Lanka (2014).

 

  • Functional Animal-1, Block 2 (Units IV- VII)/ ISBN 978-955-23-1417-9
  • Unit IV: Animal Nutrition
  • Session 11: Digestive system
  • Session 12: Digestion and absorption of food

 

  • Functional Animal-2, Block 3 (Units VIII- X)/ ISBN 978-955-23-1496-4
  • Unit VIII: Co-ordination and Homeostasis
  • Session 21: Co-ordination by nervous system
  • Session 22: Reflex action and transmission of neural messages
  • Session 23: Human sensory organs
  • Session 24: Co-ordination by endocrine system
  • Session 25: Homeostasis

 

  • Unit IX: Support and movements
  • Session 26: Animal skeletal systems
  • Session 27: Organization of the human skeletal system
  • Session 28: Skeletal muscular system
  • Session 29: Locomotion in animals

 

  • Unit X: Animal behavior
  • Session 30: Introduction to animal behavior

 

Author of following sessions of the Certificate Course in Laboratory Technology: Level 2 (PSC1221/ Basic Biology for Laboratory Practice) of The Open University of Sri Lanka (2014).

  • Unit III: Cell Biology, Physiology, Biochemical and Ecological Techniques/
  • ISBN 978-955-23-1268-7
  • Session 18: Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
  • Session 19: Histology
  • Session 20: Ecology
  • A.B.S. Weerawardhana, D.N. Balasuriya and T.S.P. Fernando (2022).“eleAlert”- A Sensor for Detecting Elephant Intrusions at Boundary Villages. ENGINEER journal, 55(2), 12-18

 

  • Ranasinghe, R.P.T.I., Fernando, T.S.P. and Wijesinghe, M.R. (2022). Effects of dietary lead exposure on the call of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) hatchings. Journal of of National Science Foundation Sri Lanka 50(2): 477-487.

 

  • Gürbüz, I., Demiraslan, Y., Rajapakse, C., Weerakoon, D. K., Fernando, S., Spataru, M. C., & Gündemir, O. (2022). Skull of the Asian (Paradoxurus Hermaphroditus) and the golden (Paradoxurus Zeylonensis) palm civet: Geometric morphometric analysis using palate, tooth and frontal landmarks. Anatomia Histologia 1-10. DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12847

 

  • Shehani U. Fernando, Preethi.V. Udagama, and Saminda P. Fernando (2022) Effect of urbanization on zoonotic gastrointestinal parasite prevalence in endemic toque macaque (Macaca sinica) from different climatic zones in Sri Lanka. International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife 17: 100-109.

 

  • Wickramasinghe, D., Weerasinghe, Y., Fernando, S. (2021). Spatial ecology of raptors in an urban wetland: A case study from Bolgoda Lake, Sri Lanka. Ukrainian Journal of Ecology 11 (7), 174-178.

 

 

  • Galappaththi, M.C.A., Fernando, T.S.P., & Padmalal, U.K.G.K. (2020). AN OVERVIEW OF THE HUMAN–ELEPHANT CONFLICT IN TISSAMAHARAMAYA, HAMBANTOTA DISTRICT, SRI LANKA, TAPROBANICA, 9 (02): 210–216.

 

  • Kotagama, O., Fernando, V. A. K., Yapa, W.B. and Fernando, T. S. P. (2020). HOST PARASITE INTERACTIONS OF BATS IN THE WAVULGALGAE CAVE; A NATURAL CAVE IN WALLAWAYA, SRI LANKA. WILDLANKA. 8 (3) : 100 – 107,

 

  • Rajapaksha, C., Amarasinghe, A. P., Fernando, S., Rajapakse, R. P. V. J., Tappe, D., & Wickramasinghe, S. (2020). Morphological and molecular description of Armillifer moniliformis larvae isolated from Sri Lankan brown palm civet (Paradoxurus montanus). Parasitology Research, 1-9.

 

  • Fernando, T. S. P., Samarasinghe, D.J.S. Fernando, V. A. K. (2019). A First time record of the round worm Ophidascaris baylisi, (Class:Nematoda, Family: Ascarididae) parasitizing on Land monitor (Varanus bengalensis) in Sri Lanka. WILDLANKA, 7(1); 48-50.

 

  • Fernando, T.S.P. , Fernando, V. A. K., Ambalangodage, M..R., Dharmasena, C., Dharmasena, N., Harischandra, I. and Wedage, I.R (2018) The fresh water garfish (Xenentodon cancila, Hamilton 1822: Family Belonidae) predating on endemic black ruby barb (Pethia nigrofasciate , Gunther 1868: Family Cyprinidae) in Walawwatha wathurana swamp forest stream in Sri Lanka. Wetlands Sri Lanka, 4:78-81.

 

  • Andrew M. Kittle, Anjali C. Watson & T. Saminda P. Fernando (2017). The ecology and behaviour of a protected area Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) population. Tropical Ecology 58(1): 71–86.

 

  • Fernando S.P. Irwin, D.E. and Seneviratne, S.S.  (2016). Phenotypic and genetic analysis support distinct species status of the Red-backed Woodpecker (Lesser Sri Lanka Flameback: Dinopium psarodes) of Sri Lanka. Auk, Ornithological Advance 133:497-511.

 

  • Fernando S.P. and S.S. Seneviratne (2015). Quantitative analysis of the variation of plumage colouration in Dinopium flame-back complex of Sri Lanka. WILDLANKA 3:61-67.

 

  • Andrew M. Kittle, Anjali C. Watson, P.H.S. Chanaka Kumara,S.D. Kashmi C. Sandanayake, H.K. Nimalka Sanjeewani & T. Saminda P. Fernando (2014) Notes on the diet and habitat selection of the Sri Lankan Leopard Panthera pardus kotiya (Mammalia: Felidae) in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, Journal of Threatened Taxa, 6(9): 6214–6221.
  • Fernando T.S.P. & Fernando V. A. K. (2014) A pentastome (Armillifer moniliformis) parasitizing a common rat-snake TAPROBANICA, 06, ( 01): 47–48.

 

  • Fernando, T.S.P. and Fernando V. A. K. (2012) Three ixodidae tick species parasitizing on Rock Python (Python molurus) in Sri Lanka. Taprobanica, 4: 54-56.

 

  • Randeniya, P.V.U., Fernando, T.S.P. and Fernando H.K.A.V.A. K., (2012) Bothridium pithonis (Blainvelle, 1824) from rock python (Python morulus) of National Zoological garden of Sri Lanka. World Journal of Zoology 7 (3): 200-202.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2011). Antinociceptive activity of Sri Lankan black tea brew (Camellia sinensis L.) in rats. International Research Journal for pharmacy 2(6); 128-137.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2010) Hepatoprotective activity of Sri Lankan black tea (Camellia sinensis) in rats. Journal of Pharmacy Research 3(3): 1-3.

 

  • Fernando, T.S.P. and Randeniya, P.V. (2009) Ecto Parasites and intestinal parasites of some selected reptile species in National Zoological Gardens, Sri Lanka. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife diseases 40(2): 272-275.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D. and Fernando, T.S.P. (2009) Antidiarrhoeal activity of Sri Lankan Dust grade black tea (Camellia sinensis) in mice. Pharmacognosy Magazine 18(4): 116-122.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D. and Fernando, T.S.P. (2009) Anti-inflammatory activity of Sri Lankan black tea (Camellia sinensis L.) in rats. Pharmacognosy Research 1:11-20.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2009) Effect of heavy consumption of black tea brew of Camellia sinensis on fertility of male rats. Sri Lanka Bulletin of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences 1(1):3-7.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2009) Effect of Sri Lanka black tea (Camellia sinensis L) on pregnancy of rats. Journal of Basic & clinical pharmacology & Toxicology 105: 361-365.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2009) Gastric ulcer healing activity of Sri Lanka Dust grade No: 1 tea (Camellia sinensis L). Pharmacognosy Magazine 19(4): 260-265.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2009) Gastroprotective activity of high grown Sri Lankan dust grade No: 1 tea (Camellia sinensis L) in rats. Pharmaceutical Biology 47(8): 675-682.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2009) Lipid lowering activity of Sri Lankan black tea brew (Camellia sinensis L.) in rats. Journal of science, Eastern University.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P., Ranatunga, R.A.A.R (2009) Diuretic activity of high grown Sri Lankan dust grade No: 1 tea (Camellia sinensis L) in rats. Pharmacognosy Research 1:4-10.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2008) Effect of black tea brew of (Camellia sinensis L) on sexual competence of male rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 118: 373-377.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2008) Effect of Sri Lankan black tea brew (Camellia sinensis) on body weight, liver and kidney function tests in rats. Journal of science, Eastern University 5(1): 1-8.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2008) In vitro thrombolytic activity of Sri Lankan black tea (Camellia sinensis L.). Journal of the National Science Foundation, 36: 179-181.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2007) Anxiolytic activity of brew of Camellia sinensis made from Sri Lankan Dust grade No 1 black tea. Australian Journal of Medical Herbalism, 19(4): 178-183.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. (2007) Effect of black tea brew of Camellia sinensis on oestrous cycle of rats. Journal of Tea Science 72 (2): 61-66.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P., Madubashini, P.P. (2007) Effect of Sri Lanka black tea brew (Camellia sinensis ) on Hexaberbital -induced sleep in mice. Vidyodaya Journal of Science, 13: 109-114.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P., Ranatunga, R.A.A.R., (2007) In vitro anticlotting activity of Sri Lankan high grown black tea (Camellia sinensis). Journal of Tea Science, 72 (1): 23-29.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P., Senevirathna, C.D.W.Y. (2007) Antipyretic activity of Sri Lanka tea Camellia sinensis. Journal of Tea Science 72 (2): 54-60.
  • Saminda Fernando, Tharanga Jayasuriya & Gaya Ranawaka (2022). Parasitology eLab: a Covid-19 pandemic induced drive for change to facilitate laboratory teaching-learning practices for undergraduates. Proceedings of the Tenth Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning.

 

  • S Sally and TSP Fernando (2022) BIOMONITORING OF HEAVY METALS IN THE YELLOW BILLED BABBLER IN SELECTED LANDSCAPES IN SRI LANKA FROM A CONSERVATION PERSPECTIVE. Proceedings of the Open University Research Sessions (OURS 2022).

 

  • I.D.H.S. Gammanpila, T.S.P. Fernando, S.S. Seneviratne and V.A.K. Fernando (2022). Parasite Profile and Trends in Parasite Composition in Yellow-billed Babblers (Turdoides affinis taprobanus) in Low Land Wet Zone, Sri Lanka. 15th International Research Conference, KDU, Sri Lanka.

 

  • Galappaththy, T.S.P. Fernando, U.K.G.K. Padmalal (2021) THE BEHAVIOURAL RESPONSE OF THE RED WATTLED LAPWING (Vanellus indicus) IN DIFFERENT HABITATS. Proceedings of the Open University Research Sessions (OURS 2021) pp41.

 

  • MHA Haseena, TSP Fernando, VK Fernando and DD Wickramasinghe. (2021)Variation in Avifaunal Diversity and Composition along a Paddy Growth Gradient in Kandy, Sri Lanka Proceedings of the International Conference on Multidisciplinary Approaches in Science, UOC. P 119.

 

  • MHA Haseena, TSP Fernando, VK Fernando and DD Wickramasinghe (2021). Variation in Avifaunal Diversity and Composition along a Land Use Gradient in Kandy, Sri Lanka. 14th International Research Conference, KDU, Sri Lanka. P 12

 

  • G. Jayatilleke, T. S. P. Fernando, K. M. Nishshanka, S. G. Nayanajeehwi and G R Ranawaka (2021) Learners perceived impact on virtual learning activities in an undergraduate human biology course. Proceeding of the 34th Annual Conference of the Asian Association of Open Universities (2021). Pp97.

 

  • A. B. S. Weerawardhana, T. S. P. Fernando and D. N. Balasuriya (2021). A sensor for detecting elephants using their urine; a case study. Proceedings of the Annual Session of Department of Wildlife Conservation, 6th and 7th April, 2020, Colombo. pp 1.

 

  • R. Payagala, M.D. De Silva, C.K. Edirisinghe, T.S.P. Fernando, U.K.G.K. Padmalal and G.D. Illeperuma. (2021). Developing a low-cost semi-autonomous electric fence monitoring system. Proceedings of the Annual Session of Department of Wildlife Conservation, 6th and 7th April, 2020, Colombo. pp 14.

 

  • Ranasinghe R.P.T.I., Fernando T.S.P. and Wijesinghe M.R. (2021). Effects of dietary lead and cadmium on growth of the japanese quail (coturnix japonica) hatchlings. Proceedings of the Annual Session of Department of Wildlife Conservation, 6th and 7th April, 2020, Colombo. pp 19.

 

  • Ranasinghe R.P.T.I., Fernando T.S.P. and Wijesinghe M.R (2021). Exposure to pb and cd induces changes in the blood profile of the japanese quail (coturnix japonica) hatchlings. Proceedings of the Annual Session of Department of Wildlife Conservation, 6th and 7th April, 2020, Colombo. pp 23.

 

  • Kotagama, O. , Fernando, V. A. K. , Yapa, W.B. and Fernando, T. S. P. (2021). Host parasite interactions of bats in the wavulgalgae cave; a cave in wallawaya, sri lanka. Proceedings of the Annual Session of Department of Wildlife Conservation, 6th and 7th April, 2020, Colombo. pp 29.

 

  • Tennakoon, T.K., Somarathna, L., Wijesinghe, M.R., Ranawaka, G.R., & Fernando, T.S.P (2021). Morphometric variation between rattus species in sri lanka and its taxonomic implications. Proceedings of the Annual Session of Department of Wildlife Conservation, 6th and 7th April, 2020, Colombo. pp 40.

 

  • Karunananda H.T.A.R, Fernando T.S.P., Gunawardena M.P. (2020) Birds as a Potential Resource in Sustainable Tourism at a Leading Tourist Resort in Sri Lanka, Proceedings of the 25th International Forestry and Environment Symposium (25) pp98.

 

  • U.M. Fernando, P.V. Udagama and T.S.P. Fernando (2020) Effect of urbanization and related anthropogenic interactions on gastrointestinal parasitic infections of urban, suburban and wild toque macaque (Macaca sinica) populations in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 76th Annual session of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Sciences, Sri Lanka. pp56

 

  • Ranasinghe R.P.T.I, Fernando T.S.P. and Wijesinghe M.R. (2020). Alterations in colour development induced by environmentally-relevant levels of lead and cadmium in hatchlings of the Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica), Proceedings of the 40th Annual sessions of Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka.

 

  • Ranasinghe R.P.T.I, Fernando T.S.P. and Wijesinghe M.R. (2020). Effects of exposure of dietary lead and cadmium on vocalization of hatchlings of the Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica). Proceedings of the 40th Annual sessions of Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka.
  • Premasiri, V.P.N.A., Goonatilake, S. de A., Manamendra-Arachchi, K., Yapa, W.B., Fernando, T.S.P., Wijesinghe, M.R. (2020).

 

  • Morphometric characterization of buffalo skulls in Sri Lanka. In proceedings of the 40th annual sessions of the Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka 2020, p. 27.
  • Premasiri, V.P.N.A., Goonatilake, S. de A., Yapa, W.B., Fernando, T.S.P., Wijesinghe, M.R. (2020). Molecular phylogeny of Sri Lankan wild buffaloes based on genetic variability of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. In proceedings of the 40th annual sessions of the Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka 2020, p. 64.

 

  • Karunananda H.T.A.R, Fernando T.S.P., Gunawardena M.P. (2021) Birds as a Potential Resource in Sustainable Tourism at a Leading Tourist Resort in Sri Lanka, Proceedings of the 25th International Forestry and Environment Symposium (25) pp98.

 

  • U.M. Fernando, P.V. Udagama and T.S.P. Fernando (2020) Effect of urbanization and related anthropogenic interactions on gastrointestinal parasitic infections of urban, suburban and wild toque macaque (Macaca sinica) populations in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 76th Annual session of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Sciences, Sri Lanka. pp56

 

  • Ranasinghe R.P.T.I, Fernando T.S.P. and Wijesinghe M.R. (2020). Alterations in colour development induced by environmentally-relevant levels of lead and cadmium in hatchlings of the Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica), Proceedings of the 40th Annual sessions of Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka.

 

  • Ranasinghe R.P.T.I, Fernando T.S.P. and Wijesinghe M.R. (2020). Effects of exposure of dietary lead and cadmium on vocalization of hatchlings of the Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica). Proceedings of the 40th Annual sessions of Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka.

 

  • Premasiri, V.P.N.A., Goonatilake, S. de A., Manamendra-Arachchi, K., Yapa, W.B., Fernando, T.S.P., Wijesinghe, M.R. (2020). Morphometric characterization of buffalo skulls in Sri Lanka. In proceedings of the 40th annual sessions of the Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka 2020, p. 27.

 

  • Premasiri, V.P.N.A., Goonatilake, S. de A., Yapa, W.B., Fernando, T.S.P., Wijesinghe, M.R. (2020). Molecular phylogeny of Sri Lankan wild buffaloes based on genetic variability of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. In proceedings of the 40th annual sessions of the Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka 2020, p. 64.

 

  • Hangawatta, T.A., Fernanda, T.S.P. and Dahanayaka, D.D.G.L. (2019). Spatial and temporal variation of fish assemblages and their associations in the Kala Oya river basin, Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the Annual Research symposium, Open University of Sri Lanka. Pp 16.

 

  • Mendis, J.C., Goonawardhna, N.D.S., Abeykoon, Fernando, T.S.P. and Jayasinghe, C.D. (2019). Effect of monoamine oxidase (MAOA) allelic variants and childhood maltreatment on violent bahaviour: preliminary investigation on convicts in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the Annual Research symposium, Open University of Sri Lanka. Pp 22.

 

  • Galappaththy, T., Bandara, N., Dassanayake, S., Somathunga, C., Fernando, T.S.P., Jayasinghe, C.D., (2019). Evaluation of Chronic toxicity of FADNA EZY herbal tea in Wister Rat model. Rajarata International Research Conference, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka. Pp.113.

 

  • Fernando, T. S. P., Samarasinghe, D.J.S. Fernando, V. A. K. (2019). A First time record of the round worm Ophidascaris baylisi, (Class:Nematoda, Family: Ascarididae) parasitizing on Land monitor (Varanus bengalensis) in Sri Lanka. WILDLANKA international Symposium, pp 15.

 

  • D.Y. del Mel, Faleel, R.A., Saminda P. Fernando, and Chanika D. Jayasinghe, (2019). A Successful attempt to reduce the oral sterotype of four captive Giraffes through feeding enrichment at the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka. WILDLANKA international Symposium, pp 16.

 

  • D.Y. del Mel, U.K.G.K Padmalal,, Saminda P. Fernando, Ruwan J. Illeperuma, (2019). Habitat relations of Elephas maximus maximus in Maduru Oya National Park of Sri Lanka. Student Conference for Conservation Science (SCCS-Aus) Brisbane, Australia.

 

  • , T.S.P. (2018). Wetlands are the key contributor for Biodiversity in Sri Lanka. Young Researchers forum on wetland conservation, Sri Lanka Water Partnership. Pp4.

 

  • Gunasena, M.G.B., Udagama, P.V., Gnanthasan, A., and Fernando, S.P. (2018). The phylogenetic status of the Sri Lankan saw scaled viper (Family: viperidae, Echis carinatus sinhaleyus). Proceedings of the 74th Annual session of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Sciences, Sri Lanka. pp54.

 

  • Sampath Seneviratne, Dilini Abeyrama, Chirathi Wijekulatilake, Sanjaya Weerakkody, Janaka Perera, Nelum Wickramasinghe, and Saminda Fernando (2018). Evolutionary significance of Sinharaja and Kanneliya MABRs for highly volant animals, Research Symposium on Wet Zone Forests, Forest Department, Sri Lanka.

 

  • Saminda P. Fernando, Shanika Lasanthi, Rashika W. Ranasinghe and Sampath S. Seneviratne (2018). Patterns of phenotypic divergence with widespread convergence revealed across morphological, biochemical, vocal and genetic traits in a group of Asian woodpeckers. 27th International Ornithology Congress, Vancouver, Canada. Pp 175-176.

 

 

  • Saminda P. Fernando, Darren E. Irwin and Sampath S. Seneviratne (2017). In-depth analysis of vocal repertoires of Dinopium species complex in Sri Lanka: structural organization and categorization.  Proceedings of the Annual Research symposium, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Pp 167.

 

  • Saminda P. Fernando, Rashika W. Ranasinghe and Sampath S. Seneviratne (2017). Patterns of divergence revealed across biochemical, morphological, vocal and genetic traits in an island endemic: the flame-back woodpeckers of Sri Lanka. Biogeography Conference, Bangalore, India.

 

  • Saminda P. Fernando, U.A. Jayawardena, I.K. Rajapakse, U.K.G.K. Padmalal (2017)
  • Ornithological research of the Open University of Sri Lanka; A model for open and distance education. 40 years of bird research in Sri Lanka, Field Ornithology Union 40 year commemorative symposium. Colombo, Sri Lanka.

 

  • Saminda P. Fernando and Sampath S. Seneviratne (2016). Dynamics of a hybrid zone between an island endemic and its continental sister species of flameback woodpeckers in Sri Lanka. 6th North American Ornithological Conference, Washington DC, USA. pp 141.

 

  • Fernando S.P, and Seneviratne S.S. (2015). A phylogenetic analysis of Dinopium woodpeckers in Sri Lanka using Cyt b and COI nucleotide sequences (Aves:Piciformes), Proceedings of the 35th Annual sessions of Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka. pp 64.

 

  • Fernando, S.P. and Seneviratne, S.S., (2015).Genetic clustering and hybrid inferiority support distinct species status of the Red-backed Woodpecker (Dinopium psarodes) of Sri Lanka, Proceedings of the Annual Research symposium, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Pp 117

 

  • Kittle, A. M., Watson, A. C. and T. S. P. Fernando (2015).The influence of intra-guild competition on leopard ecology and behaviour: a case study in Yala National Park, Block I, Sri Lanka.  Symposium of Wild Cats of South Asia, past and present’ organised by the Sri Lanka Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (SLWPNS), November 2nd and 3rd2015, Mt. Lavinia Hotel, Sri Lanka.

 

  • Kittle, A. M., Watson, A. C., Kumara, P.H.S. C., Sandanayake, S.   K.  C., Sanjeewani, H.K.  N. and T.  S.  P.  Fernando (2015). Leopard ecology in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka.  Symposium of Wild Cats of South Asia, past and present’ organised by the Sri Lanka Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (SLWPNS), November 2nd and 3rd 2015, Mt. Lavinia Hotel, Sri Lanka.

 

  • Fernando S.P., and S.S. Seneviratne (2014). Local adaptations and distance away from the Indian mainland had contributed towards endemism in Dinopium Flamebacks in Sri Lanka. 4th Student Conference on Conservation Science, Bangalore, India (available online: http://www.sccs-bng.org/2014/abstracts/158).

 

  • Perera, P.M., Krishnarajah, S.R., Bandara, R.M.N.S., Eswaramohan, T., Surendran, S.N. & Fernando T.S.P. (2014). Spiders and other Arachnid species of Delft Island, Sri Lanka. Proceedings of Jaffna Science Association, Vol 21, pp 8.

 

  • Fernando S.P. & Seneviratne S.S. (2013)  Character variation along the climatic gradients in birds endemic to Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the Annual Research symposium, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Pp 176

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D. and Fernando, T.S.P., (2008). Antidiarrhoeal activity of Sri Lankan Dust grade black tea (Camellia sinensis) in mice. Annual Research symposium, University of Colombo, pp 125.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D. and Fernando, T.S.P., (2007). Gastroprotective activity of high grown Sri Lankan dust grade No: 1 tea (Camellia sinensis L) in rats. Proceedings of the 63rd Annual session of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Sciences, Sri Lanka. pp121.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D. and Fernando, T.S.P., (2007). Antinociceptive activity of Sri Lankan black tea brew (Camellia sinensis L.) in rats. Proceedings of the 27th Annual sessions of Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka. pp 45.

 

  • Ratnasooriya, W.D., Fernando, T.S.P. and Ranatunga, R.A.A.R (2006) Diuretic activity of high grown Sri Lankan Dust grade No:1 tea Camellia sinensis L.,) in rats Proceedings of the 62nd Annual session of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Sciences, Sri Lanka. pp 70

 

  • Fernando, T.S.P., (2005). Ecto and Intestinal Parasites of some selected reptile species in National Zoological Gardens, Sri Lanka. B.Sc. Thesis, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka (Unpublished).

 

  • Fernando, T.S.P., De Silva, A., and Randeniya, P.V., (2005). Ecto Parasites of some selected reptile species in National Zoological Gardens, Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 25th annual sessions of Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka, pp 45.

 

  • Fernando, T.S.P., De Silva, A., and Randeniya, P.V., (2005). Intestinal Parasites of some selected reptile species in National Zoological Gardens, Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 25th annual sessions of Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka, pp 46.

The Head/ Department of Zoology
Faculty of Natural Sciences

The Open University of Sri Lanka

Nawala, Sri Lanka

 

 

  • National Red data list 2019 expert committee member and resource person (Bird/herpetology group).
  • Resource person at Workshop for training School Students and Teachers for Science and Technology Research in Matugama Education Zone,  organized by Ministry of Education, Ministry of Science Technology and Research and SLAAS (November 2019).
  • Resource person at Training Workshop for Zonal Science Directors, “Inculcate Science and Technology Research in School Education” at Faculty of Education, Development and Management Institute, Meepe, (October 2019).
  • Resource person at Training Workshop on Science and Technology Research for Innovative Center Managers at NIE, Maharagama, organized by Ministry of Education, Ministry of Science Technology and Research and SLAAS (August 2019)
  • Resource person at Workshop for training School Students for Science and Technology Research in Central Province, organized by Ministry of Education, Ministry of Science Technology and Research and SLAAS (August 2018).
  • Resource person at Workshop for training Teachers for Science and Technology Research in Uva Province, organized by Ministry of Education, Ministry of Science Technology and Research and SLAAS (June 2018).
  • Resource person at training Teachers for Science and Technology Research in school level, organized by Ministry of Education, Ministry of Science Technology and Research and SLAAS (2018).
  • Committee member of the 6th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) organized by the Biodiversity Secretariat of Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment (2018).
  • Resource person at District level training programme on Control and Management of Invasive Alien Species (2016).
  • Faunal survey team member of the Initial Environment Examination for the proposed 220 kV Transmission Line Project from New Polpitiya to Hambanthota; a project of Ceylon Electricity Board (2016-2017).
  • National Red data list 2016 expert committee member and resource person (herpatology group)
  • Managing editor of the Sri Lanka Journal of Biology, published by the Institute of Biology (2016 to date).
  • Team member of National Bird Ringing Programme, conducted by the Field ornithology group of Sri Lanka and Department of Wildlife Conservation (2009 to date)
  • Faunal survey team member of the Initial Environment Examination for the proposed 220 kV Transmission Line Project from New Polpitiya to Kotmale; a project of Ceylon Electricity Board (2014)

 

  • Faunal survey team member of the Initial Environment Examination for the Proposed 132 kV Transmission Line Project from Polpitiya to New Habarana; a project of Ceylon Electricity Board (2014)

 

  • Faunal survey assistant – Environmental Impact Assessment Northern Expressway Project Stage 3 & 4 (2014)

 

  • Faunal survey team member of the Initial Environment Examination for the proposed 220KV power line from Polpitiya to Pannipitiya; a project of Ceylon Electricity Board (2013)

 

  • Consultant for Environmental Impact Assessment conducted by EML Consultants (Pvt)Ltd for a Mini hydro project at Deniyaya, Sri Lanka (2011).

 

  • National Red data list 2012 expert committee member (herpatology group)

 

  • National Red data list 2007 expert committee member (herpatology group)

 

  • Consultant for Environmental Impact Assessment conducted by EML Consultants (Pvt)Ltd for Ananya Beach Resort, Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka (2010)

 

  • Consultant for Environmental Impact Assessment conducted by EML Consultants (Pvt)Ltd for a Fisheries harbor construction, Dikwella, Sri Lanka (2010).

 

  • Resource person of the G.C.E. A/L Workshop on editing the “Bio Resource and Technology” syllabus conducted by the National Institute of Education, Maharagama (February 2009).

 

  • Voluntarily participated in the Herpatofauna group of the “Protected Area Management and Wildlife Conservation Project” [funded by ADB/WB(GEF)/ Government of Netherland] conducted by Ministry of Environment in Wasgamuwa National Park, Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve, Horton Plains National Park and Uda-Walawe National Park (2007-2008).

 

  • Team member of the “Sensitive area centered school and community educational program” (UNDP/GEF small grants programme) conducted by the Young Zoologist’s Association of Sri Lanka (2002-2004).
  • Annual Research Awards 2020, The Open University of Sri Lanka.
  • Presidential Research Award for International Scientific publications cited in World Science Citation Index (2016) held in 2018
  • Hiran Tillekeratne Special Awards for Outstanding Postgraduate Research carried out during the period 2009-2011 in the field of Natural Science, University Grants Commission, Sri Lanka (2012)
  • Presidential Research Award for International Scientific publications cited in World Science Citation Index (2009) held in 2011
  • Presidential Research Award for International Scientific publications cited in World Science Citation Index (2008) held in 2011
  • Presidential Research Award for International Scientific publications cited in World Science Citation Index (2007) held in 2011
  • The Gulamhusein A.J. Noorbhai Gold Medal for Best Undergraduate Research Project in Zoology for the year 2005, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka

Grants, Scholarships:

  • RESEARCH GRANT 2022- FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCE- OUSL Roosting ecology, morphometrics and genetic affinities of Pteropus  giganteus  (Indian flying fox) in Sri Lanka
  • RESEARCH GRANT 2020 – FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCE- OUSL- “The aspects of behavioural response of Red-Wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus) in different environmental conditions: urban, semi-urban and natural”
  • RESEARCH GRANT 2019 – FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCE- OUSL, “Elucidating evolutionary affinities of Rattus species in Sri Lanka and their reservoir host potential with respect to pathogens”
  • National Science Foundation International Training Scholarship, 2016, for postgraduate research training progarmme, Biodiversity Research Centre, University Of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, 6 November to 15 December 2016.
  • National Science Foundation International Travel Grant, 2016, for oral presentation at the 6th North American Ornithology Conference, 16-20 August 2016, Washington DC, USA.
  • Mr. and Mrs. Reansey Peris Memorial Scholarship for Zoology, St. Benedict’s College, Colombo (2000)
  • Best Biology student in St. Benedict’s College, Colombo (1999)
  • Treasurer of the Open University Teacher’s Association (August 2020 to September 2021)
  • Secretary of Field Ornithology Group Sri Lanka- (Birdlife International affiliated) (FOGSL) (2017- 2018)
  • Committee member of Field Ornithology Group Sri Lanka- (Birdlife International affiliated) (FOGSL) (2014- 2016)
  • Joint Secretary of Institute of Biology of Sri Lanka (2013).
  • Elected council member of Institute of Biology of Sri Lanka (2012)
  • Zoo-Net Society of The Open University of Sri Lanka (Life member)
  • Life member of Field Ornithology Group Sri Lanka- (Birdlife International affiliated) (FOGSL)
  • Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS) – Life member
  • Young Zoologist’s Association of Sri Lanka (YZA)

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