Behind Sri Lanka’s ‘fish rain’ lies a web of migrations now blocked by rising dams

Mongabay
Mongabay
2M ago
The phenomenon of 'fish rain' in Sri Lanka serves as a reminder of the intricate connections within aquatic ecosystems and the urgent need to address barriers that hinder fish migrations. Protecting these natural movements is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Behind Sri Lanka’s ‘fish rain’ lies a web of migrations now blocked by rising dams

Key insights

  • 1

    Fish migration importance: Fish migrations are vital for ecosystem health and species survival.

  • 2

    Dams disrupt habitats: Rising dams fragment rivers, blocking essential fish migration routes.

  • 3

    Fish ladders rarely built: Proposed fish ladders to aid migration are often not constructed.

A What happened
Sri Lanka recently witnessed a phenomenon dubbed 'fish rain,' where snakehead fish were found scattered across fields after heavy rainfall. Experts clarify that these fish likely migrated overland rather than falling from the sky, as they are capable of moving across land during wet conditions. Such migrations are crucial for the survival of many freshwater species, linking various aquatic habitats. However, the construction of dams and barriers in Sri Lanka is disrupting these ancient migration routes, threatening biodiversity. Fish ladders are proposed solutions, but they are rarely implemented. This situation highlights the need for better management of aquatic ecosystems to ensure the survival of these species.

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