El Niño Impact on Ocean and Fish Stocks Under Study

COLOMBO (News 1st) -The National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency says it has begun analysing data on the potential impact of a future El Niño condition on the ocean and fish stocks.

Its Chairman, Dr. Sanath Hettiarachchi, said the analysis is being carried out with the involvement of several institutions, including the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.

He said research teams are gathering observations and analysing the potential effects on fish production, marine biodiversity and the socio-economic conditions of coastal communities, particularly fishing communities.

Dr. Hettiarachchi said the findings will help authorities make forecasts on the potential impacts of El Niño.

However, he stressed that the current increase in fish prices is not due to El Niño.