Oceanographic researchers and marine biologists at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences & Technology, University of Ruhuna, deployed an array of five advanced oceanographic telemetry buoys off Dondra Head in Matara today, October 2, 2026.

Dondra Head represents Sri Lanka's southernmost oceanic promontory, where deep continental shelf drop-offs converge with dynamic equatorial upwelling currents that carry nutrient-rich waters vital for pelagic marine ecosystems. The deployed solar-powered sensor buoys are equipped with multi-spectral satellite radiometric sensors, optical fluorometers for measuring chlorophyll-a concentrations, and acoustic Doppler current profilers that monitor subsurface thermoclines down to 200 meters depth.

Telemetry data transmitted via satellite to the university's marine computing laboratory in Wellamadama will construct real-time oceanic models predicting the feeding aggregations and migratory paths of yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) and skipjack tuna. The research initiative seeks to understand how subtle shifts in sea surface temperatures and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) climate cycles influence tuna movement patterns across southern exclusive economic zone (EEZ) waters.

Lead marine researcher Dr. H. B. Jayasiri noted that oceanographic predictive modeling will be shared directly with the Department of Fisheries to generate weekly 'Potential Fishing Zone' (PFZ) advisory maps for multi-day boat captains. Providing fishers with accurate satellite navigation data reduces unnecessary sea search days, slashes diesel fuel consumption by up to 25%, and minimizes operating overheads for the southern offshore fishing fleet.