Abstract:
The present study indicates that for the first time in Sri Lanka Indian major carps, viz, Catla
(Catla catla), Rohu (Labeo rohita) and Mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) breed and spawn naturally in
Udawalawe reservoir, a man-made perennial reservoir in Sri Lanka with the advent of the North-east
monsoon rainy season. Shallow inundated banks of the Walawe River which brings water to the reservoir
and those of the northernmost areas of the reservoir act as spawning grounds for the species.
Udawalawe reservoir will be the unique manmade heritage of the country, by being the only natural
breeding and spawning ground for Indian major carps in Sri Lanka.
