Protected Species

Protecting Marine Resources, Sustaining Livelihoods

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pelagikos has been working with multiday boat skippers, boat owners and the DFAR’s Fishing Operations Division since 2021 to reduce the mortality of Protected Species including mammals, reptiles and fish that are accidentally caught in Sri Lankan offshore and high-seas fisheries for tuna and tuna-like species.

Live-Release Kits: Tool-kits containing 18 devices that have been recommended internationally to reduce the mortality of mammals, reptiles and fish accidentally caught in longline and gillnet fisheries were fabricated locally and distributed to skippers working on multiday boats operating within and beyond Sri Lanka’s EEZ in 2021. Feedback and comments received from skippers during the pilot phase enabled pelagikos to identify the most useful live-release tools and improve the design of each tool. 200 long-handled line cutters and 200 long-handled pig-tailed de-hookers were provided to 200 longline multiday boats operating from Wellamankada, Negombo and Dikowitta Fisheries Harbours in 2022. 200 long-handled line cutters and 200 long-handled pig-tailed de-hookers were provided to 200 longline multiday boats operating from Suduwella, Nilwela, Gandara and Cod Bay Fisheries Harbours in 2022.

Protected species signboards have been installed in all 22 Fisheries Harbours, to be renewed annually by DFAR. Leaflets summarizing international best practices for the live-release of mammals, seabird, reptiles, sharks and rays have been printed in Sinhala, Tamil, Indonesian and Chinese and distributed to all 22 DFAR Harbour Offices.

In October 2025, the DFAR launched a competition for skippers working on multiday boats to submit videos demonstrating best practices for the release of mammals, reptiles and sharks/rays accidentally caught in Sri Lankan offshore and high-seas fisheries for tuna and tuna-like species

Useful links, downloads & videos
Protected Species (Poster)
International best practice for the live-release of marine mammals and seabirds (leaflet)
International best practice for the live-release of turtles (leaflet)
International best practice for the live-release of sharks and ray (leaflet) Live-release of marine mammals (video)
Live-release of turtles (video)
Live-release of sharks (video)
Live-release of rays (video)
Live-release of finfish (video)

 

Our Approach & Methodology

Pelagikos begins with evidence-based assessment, analyzing fisheries, ecosystems and community needs to design practical and sustainable management strategies.

We implement solutions collaboratively with communities, industry, and government, ensuring compliance, monitoring, and long-term conservation impact.

Get in touch with us today to discuss further.

Key focus

Pelagikos focuses on sustainable fisheries management, protecting marine biodiversity, and preventing illegal fishing, ensuring responsible use of Sri Lanka’s coastal, offshore, and high-seas resources.

  • Sustainable Fisheries Management
  • Conservation & Protection.
  • Compliance & Illegal Fishing Prevention

Expertise in Marine Fishery

Pelagikos offers expert guidance on managing Sri Lanka’s marine fisheries, blending scientific research, community collaboration, and policy support to promote sustainable practices.

  • Sustainable management of all marine fisheries
  • Protection of marine biodiversity
  • Combatting illegal and unregulated fishing

Frequently asked questions

What services does Pelagikos provide for Sri Lanka’s fisheries?

Pelagikos offers expert guidance on fisheries management, marine conservation, policy support, and sustainable seafood practices across coastal, offshore, and high-seas fisheries.

How does Pelagikos support sustainable seafood and marine conservation?

We promote responsible fishing practices, protect marine biodiversity, develop marine protected areas, and reduce the impact of fishing on endangered and protected species.

Which communities and organizations does Pelagikos collaborate with?

Pelagikos works closely with fishing communities, seafood exporters, government agencies, and non-government organizations to improve fisheries management and ensure sustainability.

What is the current status of Sri Lanka’s marine fisheries?

Sri Lanka’s marine fisheries include coastal, offshore, and high-seas sectors, supporting thousands of fishermen while facing challenges like overfishing and ecosystem pressures.

Why is marine conservation important for Sri Lanka?

Marine conservation ensures sustainable fish stocks, protects biodiversity, and supports livelihoods, while maintaining the health of coastal and offshore ecosystems.
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