In Search of the Asoka Pethiya

On the way back from the field to check one of Sri Lanka's most range-restricted and critically endangered freshwater fishes, the Asoka barb (Systomus asoka), following the recent floods. This species is endemic to the island, known only from the upper Sitawaka River and its tributaries and the Kelani River near Kitulgala.

A few were present in the known Girankiththa tributary but were also recorded in the Thotupola area of Kitulgala, a stretch that has become a popular bathing spot. Soap and detergent runoff in these waters is a real and growing threat to a population that is already critically endangered. These fish cannot afford this kind of chronic pollution on top of habitat loss and flood disturbance.

This is a call for responsible use of these waterways and for long-term, science-based conservation planning for the species, not just goodwill in the moment, but sustained protective action.

Huge thanks to Kelum Srimal Madhawa Manukularathna for their enthusiasm and hard work in the field as always.