Sri Lanka has begun using satellite data for fish forecasting to improve the efficiency of the island''s fishing industry, reports Chandani Jayatilleke.
National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) officials said data from remote sensing satellites help better identify waters rich in fish, reducing fishermen's search time.
Fishermen mostly rely on traditional knowledge and experience of sea conditions to find their catch.
Trawlers sometimes sail for days in search of fish, which is inefficient as their stay at sea is limited by fuel and food stocks, and also too expensive given high fuel costs.
NARA is also conducting awareness campaigns among fishing communities on post-harvest techniques to help them maintain the quality of their catch and reduce wastage.
New guidelines are being taught on proper storing techniques at sea, such as stacking fish as soon as they are caught so as not to bruise the fish, which reduces their marketability.
