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Department of
BOTANY

Professor H.L. Darshani Weerahewa

PhD (University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka); BSc. (University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka)

Professor in Botany

  • +94112881092
  • hlwee@ou.ac.lk

I obtained Bachelor’s and Doctoral degrees from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka in 1992 and 2002 respectively. I have rendered services as a Senior Lecturer to the Rajarata University of Sri Lanka during 2004-2008 and joined the Open University of Sri Lanka in 2008. I was promoted to the post of Professor in Botany attached to the Department of Botany, the Open University of Sri Lanka in 2018.I have served as the Head of the Department of Botany for a period of three years from2017.

My primary area of research is pre and post-harvest technology of fresh produce. Over the last ten years of my career as a researcher, I have developed a special interest to understand the effects of silicon on enhancing the disease resistance and quality and the yield of tomato,capsicum and Leeks. My research studies were mainly funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) of Sri Lanka and Faculty Research Grant, The Open University of Sri Lanka. I was the Project Leader of National Thematic Research Program awarded by the NSF Sri Lanka under the thematic area titled ‘Food Security through Adoption of Pre-harvest Technologies: Improving Quality of Fresh Produce by soil application of Potassium and

Silicon. Moreover, I served as the Project Leader of Competitive Research Grant titled Determination the effect of silicon on natural defense system against anthracnose disease and some pre and postharvest qualities in Capsicum annum and investigating the possibility of using rice hull as a low cost silicon source ’ awarded by the NSF. I was shortlisted for the Research Award of the Best Research Grant, NSF in 2017. Recently, I joined a Collaborative Research Project funded by the Australian Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) on Mitigating food loss of tomato and mango in the Post Harvest Value Chain of Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

I have published 32 full length Research papers in peer reviewed and recognized local and international Journals and 30 communications as conference proceedings or Abstracts. I have published a text book titled ‘Mineral Nutrition and diseases of fruits and vegetables’ with a reputed publisher in Sri Lanka. I was a recipient of the Presidential Research Award in 2007. Darshani is currently involved in developing Nano-Silicon fertilizer, and two setups with Silicon supplements namely Self controlled automated in-door Orchid pot and a verti-grow aeroponic setup in collaboration with the Industrial Liaison Center, The Open University of Sri Lanka.

Preharvest and Postharvest Technology

Preharvest and Post harvest Technologies, Food Science, Plant Pathology

Present Position

  • Professor in Botany-Department of Botany, The Open University of Sri Lanka

(from 25th May 2018 to date)

 

Previous Appointment

  • Head, Department of Botany Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka (From 23rd March 2017 to 23rd March 2020)
  • Senior Lecturer Grade I – Dept. of Botany, Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of Sri Lanka (From 14th June 2010 to 24th May 2018)
  • Senior Lecturer Grade II– Dept. of Botany, Faculty of Natural Sciences, The Open University of  Sri Lanka (From 03rd June 2008 to 14th June 2010)
  • Visiting Scholar-, University of Queensland, Australia

(From 06th September – 20th October 2007)

  • Senior Lecturer Grade II– Dept. of Biology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, The Rajarata University of Sri Lanka (From 03rd June 2004 to 02 June 2008)
  • Senior Lecturer (Temporary)-Faculty of Applied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka

(From March 2003 to June 2004)

  • Post-Doctoral Fellow

Department of Botany, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka

(From July 2002- March 2003)

  • Graduate Research Assistant

Department of Botany, University of Peradeniya Sri Lanka

(From 1997 to 2002)

  • Demonstrator

Department of Botany, University of Peradeniya

(From 1996 to 1997)

 

Head (Botany)- (2017-2020)

B.Sc. Degree Courses:
Horticulture (BYU5609) – 6 credit course (300hrs of study)-Level 05(third Year)2010 uptodate
Units 1-V (Introduction to Horticulture, Manipulation of plant growth, Fruits, Vegetables and Ornamental Plants)
Diversity of Plants (BYU3500)-5 credit course (250 hours of study)-Level 03(first year)2019 uptodate
Unit 1-VI (virus, Bacteria and cyanobacteria, Fungi, Algae, non- vascular Land plants, seedless vascular plants, Gymnosperms ad Angiosperms
Ethics in science and Technology (FNU3200)-2 credit course (100 hrs of study)-Level 03 First Year-2014-2017
Organization of cells and plant biochemistry (BYU3301)-3 credit course (150 hrs of study)-Level 03(First Year)-2009-2012
Units I-III (Plant cell, Molecular biology

Visiting Lectures
· The Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo (2011-2016)
Courses: Postharvest Technology and crop Protection (Lecturers- 40 hrs)
· Department of Agriculture and plantation management, Faculty of Engineering Technology, The Open University of Sri Lanka, Nawala (From 2012-2013)
Course: Genetics
· The Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya (From 2002-2005)
o Course: Food Science: fruit and vegetable technology
o Physical, chemical and biological methods used in preservation, common unit operations, postharvest handling of fruits and vegetables. The Department of Botany, Faculty Natural Science, The Open University of Sri Lanka, Polgolla (From 2004-2005)
o Courses: Plant Physiology and Plant Growth and Development
· The Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management, Sabaragamuwa Univeristy of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya (From 2001-2002)
o courses: Genetics and plant breeding (02 credits)
Postgraduate-M.Sc.
Post Graduate Institute of Science (PGIS), University of Peradeniya – Offered by the Board of Study in Plant Sciences (From 2002-2007)
Courses: Postharvest technology of fruits and vegetables
Pre- and postharvest physiology/biochemistry of fresh produce, Postharvest handling and quality assurance of perishables

Research Colloborations:

Project 1: Funded by: Australian Centre for International Agricultural  Research ( ACIAR)

Research Collaborators: Sri Lanka (Universities: Peradeniya, Wayamba and The Open University of Sri Lanka) and Pakistan

 Title:

 Developing food loss reduction pathways through smart business practices in Mango and Tomato value chain in Sri Lanka and Pakistan

 

Research Grants:

Project 1:

Co-Investigator

Preliminary study on the potential of biological control of tomato anthracnose using native bio agents

Funding source: Faculty Research Grant 2021 and 2022

 

Project 2:

Co-Investigator

Rice-hull Mediated Preparation of Si Nanoparticles as a Novel Nano-fertilizer

For Oryza sativa (rice): From ‘Waste’ to ‘Sustainable Agronomy’

Funding source: Faculty Research Grant 2020 to 2022

 

Project 3:

Principle Investigator

 “The Investigation on effect of partially burnt rice hull on growth of immature rubber plants, soil properties and cost effectiveness of the application”

Funding source: Faculty Research Grant 2020 and 2021

 

Project 4:

FACULTY RESEARCH GRANT

Principle Investigator

Novel frying strategies to reduce the oil content in some popular Sri Lankan snack foods-Faculty Research Grant 2017

 

Project 5:

NATIONAL THEMATIC RESEARCH PROGRAM ON FOOD SECURITY:

Project Leader

Food Security through Adoption of Pre-harvest Technologies: Improving Quality of Fresh Produce by soil application of potassium and Silicon   

Funding source: National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka (NSF)

[NTRP/2013/FS/PG-02/P-02] (2014 – 2017)

 

Project 6:

NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION-COMPETITIVE RESEARCH GRANTS

Principal Investigator

Project title: Determination the effect of silicon on natural defence system against anthracnose disease and some pre and postharvest qualities in Capsicum annum and investigating the possibility of using rice hull as a low cost silicon source Funding source: National Science foundation NSF-RG/2012/AG/04)   

 

Project 7:

Principal Investigator

Effect of Pre harvest application of ‘silicon’ on pests, diseases and internal browning disorder of pineapple (Annanas comosus cv. Mauritius) fruit. Funding source: The Open University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Faculty Research Grant – 2015

 

Project 8:

Principal Investigator

Effect of silicon mediated alleviation on heavy metal uptake of Basella alba (spinach) .Funding source: The Open University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Faculty Research Grant – 2015

 

Project 9:

Principal Investigator

Development of novel synbiotic shelf-stable fruit, vegetable and cereal beverages and assessing their economic feasibility. Funding source: The Open University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Faculty Research Grant – 2014

 

Project 10:

Principal Investigator

Applicability of the low cost silicon sources on floricultural quality traits and diseases of Dendrobium spp. Funding source: The Open University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, and Faculty Research Grant – 2013

 

Project 11:

Principal Investigator

Applicability of the use of aeroponics system and silicon supplementation on growth and the flower quality of dendrobium spp. Funding source: The Open University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Faculty Research Grant 2012

 

Project 12:

Principal Investigator

 Investigation of a low cost silicon source and optimization of silicon application to improve post and pre-harvest qualities for hydroponically grown Capsicum annum. Funding source: The Open University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Faculty Research Grant 2012

 

Project 13:

Principal Investigator

Investigation of the effect and the applicability of a low cost silicon source on the pre and post harvest quality trails of hydroponically grown Capsicum annum. Funding source: The Open University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Faculty Research Grant 2010

 

Project 14:

Principal Investigator

Effects of Silicon treatment on diseases and quality of hydroponically grown tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum). Funds: The Open University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Faculty Research Grant 2009

 

Project 15:

Principal Investigator

Improving the export potential cut foliage, Cordyline terminalis by increasing postharvest vase life

Funding source: ADB/DEMP Project from the Open University of Sri Lanka 2008

Book/Chapters

  • Text Books

o   Mineral nutrition and diseases of fruits and vegetables-2017

  • ISBN 978-955-30-8424-8 , S.Godage & Publishers (Pvt) Ltd.,661/665/675,P.de S  Kularatne Mawatha, Colombo 10, Sri Lanka

o   Fundamentals of Plant Tissue Culture- 2018

  • ISBN 978-955-30-8884-0, S. Godage & Publishers (Pvt) Ltd.,661/665/675, P.de S  Kularatne Mawatha, Colombo 10, Sri Lanka

o   Underutilized fruit crops

  • (In) Nutritional and health benefits of selected food crops of Sri Lanka- A compilation of concise scientific findings. Published by institute of biology, Sri Lanka, 28th September 2018.ISBN 978-955-8476-07-9

 

  1. Wijayawardene NN, Hyde KD, Divakar PK, Rajeshkumar KC, Weerahewa D, Delgado G, Wang Y, Fu L (2018) Notes for genera update – Ascomycota: 6616-6821. Mycosphere 9(1), 115–140, Doi 10.5943/mycosphere/9/1/2
  2.     Wijayawardene,N.N., Kevin D. Hyde,., Kunhiraman C. Rajeshkumar., David L. Hawksworth., Hugo Madrid., Paul M. Kirk., Uwe Braun., Rajshree V. Singh., Pedro W. Crous., Martin Kukwa., Robert Lu ¨cking., Cletus P. Kurtzman., Andrey Yurkov., Danny Haelewaters., Andre ´ Aptroot.,H. Thorsten Lumbsch.,Einar Timdal., Damien Ertz., Javier Etayo., Alan J. L. Phillips., Johannes Z. Groenewald., Moslem Papizadeh., Laura Selbmann., Monika C. Dayarathne., Gothamie Weerakoon., E. B. Gareth Jones., Satinee Suetrong., Qing Tian., Rafael F. Castan ˜eda-Ruiz., Ali H. Bahkali., Ka-Lai Pang., Kazuaki Tanaka., Dong Qin Dai., Jariya Sakayaroj., Martina Hujslova., Lorenzo Lombard., Belle D. Shenoy., Ave Suija., Sajeewa S. N. Maharachchikumbura., Kasun M. Thambugala., Dhanushka N. Wanasinghe., Bharati O. Sharma., Subhash Gaikwad., Gargee Pandit., Laura Zucconi., Silvano Onofri., Eleonora Egidi., Huzefa A. Raja., Rampai Kodsueb., Marcela E. S. Ca ´ceres., Sergio Pe ´rez-Ortega., Patrı ´cia O. Fiuza., Josiane Santana Monteiro., Larissa N. Vasilyeva., Roger G. Shivas., Maria Prieto., Mats Wedin., Ibai Olariaga., Adebola Azeez Lateef.,Yamini Agrawal., Seyed Abolhassan Shahzadeh Fazeli., Mohammad Ali Amoozegar., Guo Zhu Zhao., Walter P. Pfliegler., Gunjan Sharma., Magdalena Oset., Mohamed A. Abdel-Wahab., Susumu Takamatsu., Konstanze Bensch., Nimali Indeewari de Silva., Andre ´ De Kesel., Anuruddha Karunarathna., Saranyaphat Boonmee., Donald H. Pfister., Yong-Zhong Lu., Zong-Long Luo., Nattawut Boonyuen., Dinushani A. Daranagama., Indunil C. Senanayake., Subashini C. Jayasiri., Milan C. Samarakoon., Xiang-Yu Zeng., Mingkwan Doilom., Luis Quijada., Sillma Rampadarath., Gabriela Heredia., Asha J. Dissanayake., Ruvishika S. Jayawardana., Rekhani H. Perera., Li Zhou Tang., Chayanard Phukhamsakda., Margarita Herna ´ndez-Restrepo., Xiaoya Ma., Saowaluck Tibpromma., Luis F. P. Gusmao., Darshani Weerahewa., Samantha C. Karunarathna., Notes for genera: Ascomycota (2017)Fungal Diversity DOI 10.1007/s13225-017-0386-0, 594 pgs.
  3. Karunarathna A, Papizadeh M, Senanayake IC, Jeewon R, Phookamsak R, Goonasekara ID, Wanasinghe DN, Wijayawardene NN, Amoozegar MA, Shahzadeh Fazeli SA, Camporesi E, Hyde KD, Weerahewa HLD, Lumyong S, McKenzie EHC(2017).Novel fungal species of Phaeosphaeriaceae with an asexual/sexual morph connection.Mycosphere 8(10): 1818-1834.ISSN20777019
  4. Karunarathna A, Phookamsak R, Wanasinghe DN, Wijayawardene NN, Weerahewa HLD, Khan S, Wang Y (2017). Taxonomy and phylogeny of Sparticola muriformis sp. nov. on decaying grass. Mycosphere 8(4), 603–614, Doi 10.5943/mycosphere/8/4/9
  5.         Nalin N. Wijayawardene, Moslem Papizadeh, Alan J.L. Phillips, Dhanushka N. Wanasinghe, D. Jayarama Bhat, H.L.Darshani Weerahewa, B.D. Shenoy, Yong Wang (2017) Mycosphere Essays 19: Recent advances and future challenges in taxonomy of coelomycetous fungi. Mycosphere Vol 08, Issue 07, pgs 934-950.
  6.     Jayawardana, H A R K ., Weerahewa H L D and  Saparamadu, M D J S     (2015).Enhanced resistance against anthracnose disease in Capsicum annum by amendment of nutrient solution with silicon. Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology 90 (5) 557–562
  7.     Weerahewa Darshani and David Dilshan (2015) Effect of Silicon and potassium on tomato anthracnose and on postharvest quality of tomato fruit (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)  Journal of National Science Foundation. 43 (3):273-280.DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jnsffr.v4313.7959.
  8.   Weerahewa, H L D and Adikaram, N.K.B. (2011) Enhanced cold tolerance in pineapple (Ananas comosus ‘Mauritius’) by combined cold- and heat shock treatments or intermittent warming. Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, 86 (1)13-18.
  9.  Weerahewa, D and Adikaram, N.K.B. (2005). Heat induced tolerance to internal browning of pineapple (Ananas comosus cv.Mauritius) under cold storage. Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology 80(4) 503-509.

        

  1. Darshani Weerahewa and Sakalya Rajapaksha. (2020). Cytological changes and some postharvest quality traits of leeks grown in soil incorporated with partially burnt rice hull as a low-cost silicon source. Acta Horticulture 1278. ISHS 2020. DOI 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1278.5 Proc. IV International Conference on Postharvest and Quality Management of  Horticultural Products of Interest for Tropical Regions
  2.         Darshani Weerahewa and Indika Wicramasekara. (2020). Preharvest application of Silicon reduces internal Browning development of pineapple (Ananas comosus cv.Mauritius) during cold storage: A novel approach. . Acta Horticulture 1278. ISHS 2020. DOI 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1278.6 Proc. IV International Conference on Postharvest and Quality Management of  Horticultural Products of Interest for Tropical Regions
  3. Sandani, H.B.P. & Weerahewa, H.L.D., (2018). Wilt diseases of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) and chili (Capsium annum) and their management strategies: Emphasis on the strategies employed in Sri Lanka: A review. Sri Lankan Journal of Biology. 3(2), pp.24–43. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/sljb.v3i2.24
  4. 4. Perera, ODAN., Weerahewa, H L D and Vidanagamage, S.(2017). Role and current trends of developing fruit vegetable and cereal based probiotic foods: A review. International Journal of Fermented food 6(2), 85-93.
  5.     Thrikawala, S and Weerahewa, H.L.D (2018). Cost effectiveness of Preharvest Technologies and their adaptability among small hoder vegetable farmers in Sri Lanka. Asia Pacific journal of Advanced Business and Social Studies,Vol 04, Issue02,130-137pgs.
  6. Fasreen, M.M.F., Perera, O.D.A.N. and Weerahewa, H.L.D., (2017). Development of Finger Millet Based Probiotic Beverage Using Lactobacillus casei431®. OUSL Journal. 12(1), pp.128–138. DOI:http://doi.org/10.4038/ouslj.v12i1.7384
  7. Mihirani, M K S, Gamage Perera, ODAN and Weerahewa, H.L.D. (2016). Development of synbiotic beverage from beet root juice using beneficial probiotic Lactobacillus Casei 431 Ruhuna Journal of Science, Vol 07, Issue 02, 70-75 pgs
  1. Jayawardana, H A R K and Weerahewa H L D (2016). Improving resistance to anthracnose disease in chillie pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) grown in soil amended with raw rice hull as a source of silicon. Ruhuna Journal of Science Vol 07, Issue 02, 64-69 pgs
  2. Samanthika R. Hettiarachchi and Darshani Weerahewa (2016). Effect of Na2SiO3 on heavy metal uptake by field grown Basella alba L. in Matara, Sri Lanka. Ruhuna Journal of Science, Vol 07, Issue 02, 21-31pgs.
  3. Darshani Weerahewa and Kosala Somapala (2016) Role of silicon on enhancing disease    resistance in tropical fruits and vegetables: A Review.OUSL Journal Vol 10., Issue, 135-162 pgs
  4. Alwis ADPA, Perera ODAN., Weerahewa, HLD ( 2016). Development of novel carrot-based symbiotic beverage using lactobacillus casiei 431. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University, Vol 11, (3), pp.178–185. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jas.v11i3.8171
  5. Darshani Weerahewa (2016). Floricultural quality traits and probing mechanisms of silicon mediated disease resistance of Dendrobium. OUSL Journal Vol 10, Issue, 23-43pages
  6. Jayawardana, H A R K ., Weerahewa H L D and  Saparamadu, M D J S (2016).The mechanisms underlying the anthracnose disease reduction by rice hull as a silicon source in capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.) grown in simplified hydroponics. Proceedia Food Science 6:  147-150. DOI:10.1016/j.profoo.2016.02.035
  7. Somapala, K.S., Weerahewa, H L D and Thrikawala, S (2016). Silicon rich rice hull amended soil enhances anthracnose resistance in tomato. Proceedia Food Science 6:190-193. DOI:10.1016/j.profoo.2016.02.046
  8. Jayawardana, H A R K ., Weerahewa H L D and  Saparamadu, M D J S (2016).Rice hull as a silicon source in simplified hydroponic system to enhance anthracnose disease resistance and some growth and fruit parameters of capsicum. International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture 5:9-15 DOI:10.1007/s40093-015-0112-4.
  9. Somapala, K.S., Weerahewa, H L D and Thrikawala, S.(2016). Enhanced resistance against anthracnose disease in chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) by soil application of potassium International Journal of Agriculture, Forestry and plantation. Vol 2 ISSN-2462-1757.
  10. Somapala, K.S., Weerahewa, H L D and Thrikawala, S.(2015). Pre harvest application of potassium on enhancing resistance to anthracnose in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) International Journal of Agriculture, Forestry and plantation ISSN 2462-1757.Vol 1 ,29-31 pgs.
  11. Bandara W M K L .Perera O D A N., Weerahewa, H L D.(2015). Enhancing disease resistance and improving quality of papaya (Carica papaya L.) by postharvest application of silicon International Journal of Agriculture, Forestry and plantation ISSN 2462-1757.Vol 1, 24-28 pgs.
  12. Somapala, K.S ., Weerahewa, H L D and Thrikawala, S.(2015).Effect of potassium on growth, fruit quality improvements and resistance to anthracnose in field grown capsicum (Capsicum annum L. cv. ‘Hungarian Yellow Wax’) International Journal of Multidisciplinary studies, Issue 02,Volume 02
  13. Jayawardana H.A.R.K., Weerahewa H.L.D. and Saparamadu M.D.J.S. (2014), Silicon supplementation by rice hull leachate on the growth, yield, fruit parameters and anthracnose disease resistance of capsicum ‘Muria F1’, International Journal of Multidisciplinary studies, Volume 1 pgs. 33-36
  14. Jayawardana H.A.R.K., Weerahewa H.L.D. and Saparamadu M.D.J.S. (2014), Effect of root or foliar application of Soluble Silicon on Plant growth, Fruit quality and Anthracnose development of Capsicum, Tropical Agricultural Research, 26 (1): 74 – 81
  15. Weerahewa, D and Adikaram, N.K.B. (2005).Some biochemical factors underlying the differential susceptibility two cultivars to internal browning disorder. Ceylon Journal of Science, Vol 34, 7-20.
  16. Adikaram, N.K.B, Mailewa, G and Weerahewa, D. (2002).Changes in pigment composition acid metabolism etc in Pedilanthus tithymaloides leaf following powdery mildew infection. Journal of National Science of Sri Lanka 30(1&2), 1-11.

    1.  Darshani Weerahewa. (2022).Development of self- controlled orchid pot with modular units of assembly. Bio news, Volume 2, issue 2, April 2022

  1.     Anuththara, N.V.I.K., Kumara, H., Wijenayake, L., Weerahewa, D. (2021). Waste to Value through Rice Hull to Nano-silica: A Novel Paradigm of Sustainable Agronomy. Proceedings of International conference on advances in technology and computing, University of Kelaniya,Pgs 88-91
  1.     NNG Chiranthika., ODAN Perera, HLD Weerahewa (2018). Air frying as a way to substantially lower fat content of snacks with desired quality attributes. Proceedings of SLASS 2018, pg 616
  2.     Sunil Thrikawala and Darshani Weerahewa (2018). Cost effectiveness of pre harvest technologies and their adoptability among small holder vegetable farmers in Sri Lanka. Proceedings at 6th Asia Pacific Conference on Advanced Research (APCAR -2018)”. The conference was held at the hotel ‘Rydges on Swanston’, Melbourne, Australia on 2nd –4th March, 2018.Pgs. 1255-1260.
  3. Karunarathna A, Phookamsak R, Wanasinghe DN, Wijayawardene NN, Weerahewa HLD. (2017). A novel member to Sporormiaceae from grass. Centre of Excellence in Fungal Research Conference, Thailand. Pg. 83.
  4.     Chiranthika, N N G, Perera, O D A N and Weerahewa H L D. (2017).Air frying as a way of producing snacks with desired quality attributes, Undergraduate Research symposium 2017, Faculty of Livestock fisheries and Nutrition, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Pg. 89.
  5.     Darshani Weerahewa and Sakalya Rajapaksha. (2017).Cytological changes and some postharvest quality traits of leeks grown in soil incorporated with partially burnt rice hull as a low-cost silicon source. Proceedings of the iv International conferences on postharvest and quality management of interest for tropical regions (PQMHP),6-8 April 2017, Kandy,Sri Lanka, Pg. 33.
  6.     Darshani Weerahewa and Indika Wicramasekara.(2017). Preharvest application of Silicon reduces internal Browning development of pineapple (Ananas comosus cv.Mauritius) during cold storage: A novel approach .Proceedings of the iv International conferences on postharvest and quality management of interest for tropical regions (PQMHP),6-8 April 2017, Kandy,Sri Lanka.Pg.47.
  7.     Darshani Weerahewa, Sunil Thrikawala, Niranjala Perera and Prasad Dias (2016) Effect of soil application of potassium and silicon on pre and post harvest qualities of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.), capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.) and leeks (Allium porrum L.) Proceedings of NSF Research Summit held on 7-8 July 2016. Pg.78
  8. Darshani Weerahewa., Janakie Saparamadu and Ruwani Kalpana Jayawardana (2016).Effect of silicon on postharvest quality of hydroponically grown chilli pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Proceedings of NSF Research Summit 2016 held on 7-8 July 2016. Pg.79
  9. Weerahewa, HLD and Rajapaksa, RPSS (2016).A new record on Silicon bodies (Phytoliths) from silicon treated leeks (Allium porrum). 2nd International Wayamba Conference, 2016 August 19-20 , Pg. 310
  10. Weerahewa. HLD;  Rajapakse, RPSS; Rajakaruna, S; Dias, P Perera, ODAN (2016) Enhancing Postharvest quality of field grown leeks (Allium porrum) by Incorporating partially-burnt rice hull as a low cost silicon source. 2nd International Wayamba Conference 2016 August 19-20 , Pg 309.
  11. Karunarathna, A., Wijayawardene, N.N., Weerahewa, H.L D Kevin D. Hyde (2016).Preliminary survey of conidial fungi in Weligama mangrove forest indicates higher micro-flora diversity. 21st International Forestry and Environment Symposium, Sri Lanka. Pgs.1266-1268.
  12. Fasreen, M.M. F., Perera, O.D.A.N and Weerahewa, H L D. (2016). Development of Finger Millet based Probiotic Beverage using Lacto bacillus casei 431®  Undergraduate Research Symposium, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Makandura
  13. Somapala, K.S., Weerahewa, H L D and Thrikawala, S.(2016). Enhanced resistance against anthracnose disease in chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) by soil application of potassium.  Proceedings of the 2nd Kuala Lumpur International Agriculture, Forestry and Plantation Conference. Pg.15.
  14. Mihirani, M K S, Perera, ODAN and Weerahewa, H.L.D. (2015) Development of synbiotic beverage from beet root juice using beneficial probiotic Lactobacillus Casei 431.Annual Research Sessions, Institute of food science and technology Sri Lanka
  15. Somapala, K.S., Thrikawala, S. and Weerahewa, H L D (2015). Potassium enhanced growth, fruit quality improvements and resistance to anthracnose in field grown capsicum (Capsicum annum L. cv. ‘Hungarian Yellow Wax’). International Conference on Multidisciplinary Approaches, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, 2015.
  16. Jayawardana, H A R K., Weerahewa H L D and Saparamadu, M D J S (2015).The mechanisms underlying the anthracnose disease reduction by rice hull as a silicon source  in capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.) grown in simplified hydroponics. Proceedings of the International Conference of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka 2015 (ICSUSL 2015).
  17. Somapala, K.S., Weerahewa, H L D and Thrikawala, S (2015). Silicon rich rice hull amended soil enhances anthracnose resistance in tomato Proceedings of International Conference of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka 2015 (ICSUSL 2015),
  18. Bandara W M K L., Perera O D A N., Weerahewa, H L D. (2015).  Enhancing disease resistance and improving quality of papaya (Carica papaya L.) by postharvest application of silicon Undergraduate Research Symposium, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Makandura, Pg.53.
  19. Alwis ADPS., Perera, ODAN and Weerahewa, H.L.D. (2014) Development of novel carrot-based synbiotic beverage. Undergraduate Research Symposium, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Makandura, Pg. 50.
  20. Jayawardana H. A. R. K.  Weerahewa H. L. D. and Saparamadu M. D. J. S. (2014)A novel approach for growing capsicum: A hydroponics system treated with rice hull leachate for enhanced performance of capsicum annum L. International Research sessions, University of Peradeniya, 18, Pg.543.
  21. Jayawardana H. A. R. K. Weerahewa H. L. D. and Saparamadu M. D. J. S.  and Rathnayaka R. M. A (2014).Investigation of effect of silicon on anthracnose disease of capsicum annum L (cv. Awulegama) grown in hydroponics. International Research sessions, University of Peradeniya, 18, Pg.544.
  22. Jayawardana H.A.R.K., Weerahewa H.L.D. and Saparamadu M.D.J.S. (2014), Silicon supplementation by rice hull leachate on the growth, yield, fruit parameters and anthracnose disease resistance of capsicum ‘Muria F1’, International Conference on Multidisciplinary Approaches, Pg.132.
  23. Jayawardana H.A.R.K., Weerahewa H.L.D. and Saparamadu M.D.J.S. (2014), Effect of root or foliar application of Soluble Silicon on Plant growth, Fruit quality and Anthracnose development of Capsicum, Annual congress, Post graduate institute of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya. Pg.28.
  24. Weerahewa H L D (2013).Applicability of the use of aeroponics system and silicon supplementation on growth and floricultural quality traits of Dendrobium sp. Proceedings of Annual Research Sessions, The Open University of Sri Lanka 2013, Pgs.431-435.
  25. Weerahewa, H.L.D. Jayakody, L.K.R.R Perera and. S.A.T.A.  Somarathne, S. (2013). Enhanced disease resistance and quality of hydroponically grown tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L) tomato though silicon supplementation. Proceedings of 33rd Annual Sessions, the Institute of Biology, Pg. 40.
  26. David D and Weerahewa H L D (2012). Silicon suppress anthracnose disease in tomato by enhancing natural diseases resistance. Proceedings of Annual Research Sessions 2012, the Open University of Sri Lanka.  Pgs.210-214.
  27. Weerahewa H. L. D and Nelum Peris (2012). A novel approach for reducing diseases and improving the some floricultural quality traits of Dendrobium Orchids. National Symposium on Floricultural Research.
  28. Jayasinghe, A P., Weerahewa, H L D and Dassanayake E.M. (2012). Optimization of the conditions for acclimatization of micro propagated pineapple propagules. International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment, University of Ruhuna Sri Lanka, Pgs.306-308.
  29. Weerahewa H L D and Somaratne, S. (2011) Effect of some Vase water additives on vase life of Cordyline terminalis ‘red ‘foliage. Proceedings of 26th Annual Research Sessions, the Open University of Sri Lanka. Pgs. 257-261.
  30. Amarasinghe I., De Silva T, Weerahewa Darshani (2011).In-vitro propagation of Gymnema sylvestre– An important medicinal plant. Proceedings of 26th Annual Research Sessions, the Open University of Sri Lanka. Pgs. 245-248.
  31. Weerahewa, D and Adikaram, N K B (2009) Intermittent Warming: A new technique for reducing internal browning of harvested pineapples cv.Mauritius .Proceedings of 25th Annual Research Sessions, The Open University of Sri Lanka. Pgs. 36-39.
  32. Weerahewa, D and Adikaram, N.K.B. (2007).Resistance of banana cv.Seeni to anthracnose disease.1st Annual Research Sessions, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale. Pg.17.
  33. Weerahewa, D and Adikaram, N.K.B. (2005). Heat treatment induces tolerance in pineapple (Ananas comosus) to internal browning during cold storage.The Second Asian Conference on Plant Pathology, 25-28 June, 2005, National university of Singapore, Pg.113.
  34. Weerahewa, D and Adikaram, N.K.B. (2002). Induction of cold tolerance of pineapple (Ananas comosus cv.Mauritius) heat shock treatment followed by MA storage Proceedings of Annual Research Sessions of, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Vol.7, Pg.117.
  35. Weerahewa, D and Adikaram, N.K.B. (2000).Heat treatment followed by modified atmosphere storage reduces internal browning of pineapple during cold storage. Proceedings of 56th of Annual Research Sessions of Sri Lanka Advancement of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.Pg.70
  36. Weerahewa, D and Adikaram, N.K.B. (1999).Postharvest heat shock reduces internal browning of pineapple cv.Mauritius and Kew during cold storage. Proceedings of Annual Research Sessions, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Pg.29.

39.   Darshani Weerahewa, Sunethra Dharmasiri and Adikaram, N.K.B. (1998). Study of internal browning and some associated physicochemical and biochemical parameters in two cultivars of pineapple during cold storage. Proceedings of Annual Research Sessions, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Pg.30

Contribution to the ACIAR research Project on: Developing food loss reduction pathways through smart business practices in Mango and Tomato value chain in Sri Lanka and Pakistan ( 2022 to 2025)

Course writer-Applied Biology B.Ed. in secondary Education Special component -Biology Institutional Education Department 

Syllabi prepared: Implementation of best practices in landscape management

Examines opportunities of horticulture for comfort, wellbeing, and   ornamental purposes

Panel member of the ‘Dasis’ Award Jury Panel of ‘Sahasak Nimawum’-Sri Lanka Inventors commission-26th December 2021

Panel member at the selection committee at Council for Agricultural Research Policy (CARP) on 29th December 2021

Keynote address: National Symposium for Floriculture Research title: Blooming flowers with silicon: A novel technology for quality improvement. Held online on 11th December, 2020.

Session Chair – National Symposium for Floriculture Research

Session Chair – Food Techno 2019: Fifth Annual Research Session of the Institute of Food Science & Technology Sri Lanka (IFSTSL).03rd August 2019.

     .  Presidential Awards for Scientific Research – 2007 – Presidential Secretariat, National Research Council, Ministry of Technology and Research of Sri Lanka

·         OUSL Research Awards– Awarded from  The Open University of Sri Lanka in years 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018

Memberships-

International Society for Horticultural Sciences (ISHS)

Sri Lanka Association for Mycology and Plant Pathology (SLAMPP)

Institute of Biology Sri Lanka (IOBSL)

 

Fellowships-

Chartered  Biologist –Awarded from the  Institute of Biology Sri Lanka in 2019

 

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