2010 Small World Competition Winners

This post is created by me "rkpdesilva" for the sL-spirit.com and not a one like got from E-Mails Etc. This is the original post..........

2010 Small World Competition Winners

1st Place >> (mosquito) heart (100X)
100 වාරයක් විශාල කරනලද මදුරු හදවත



Malaria’s impact worldwide is still an issue, particularly in developing countries. Research is ongoing to study the carriers of malaria, mosquitoes, and how they carry and transmit the disease and other pathogens. That’s why the 2010 winning image by Jonas King is so important to the life science community.

Anopheles gambiae (mosquito heart) was captured at 100x magnification. Jonas works out of Vanderbilt University’s Hillyer Lab, which studies the interactions between mosquitoes and their pathogens, along with salivary components and how they interact with the vertebrate host’s immune response.

The image details the structural organization of the mosquito heart and provides insight into how mosquitoes move blood to all regions of their bodies. Jonas notes, “Mosquitoes remain one of the greatest scourges of mankind. Malaria infects hundreds of millions of people annually and is believed to have a major impact on the economies of endemic regions.”


2nd Place >> 5-day old zebrafish head (20X)

Dr. Hideo Otsuna is a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Utah’s Neurobiology and Anatomy Department. His research focuses on neuro-anatomy of drosophila and zebrafish, particularly in creating accurate 3D/4D reconstruction of these organisms.

His image of a five-day old zebrafish head, magnified 20x, was taken using FlouRender, the university’s interactive rendering tool for confocal microscopy data visualization, which is designed especially for neurobiologists to help them better visualize the fluorescent-stained confocal samples.

Says Dr. Otsuna of the 3D volume method, “In my opinion, it’s not just good for visualizing the information captured by the microscope in research, but it’s also aesthetically superior than traditional methods.”


3rd Place >> Zebrafish olfactory bulbs (250X)

The processes that shape and change the developing and mature brain are some of the most complex in science. That’s exactly what Oliver Braubach sought to explore when snapping the photo of zebrafish olfactory bulbs. These structures bulge out of the anterior part of the brain and serve to organize and relay incoming olfactory information. The image taken for Small World was taken as part of preliminary experiments aimed at developing anatomical labels for different structures in the olfactory bulb. Since developing these labels, Oliver has used them to investigate how fibers from the nose contact cells in the brain and how these connections refine after they are initially formed.

The general focus of his photomicrography is the structure of the intact vertebrate nervous system. Oliver notes, “I think that it is possible to learn a lot about the function of the brain by looking at its intact structure, such as the anatomical connections between cell populations.”

In addition to his science work, Oliver is also an avid photographer and devotes much of his free time to taking pictures of materials unrelated to his work. As such, he has become increasingly interested in technical and artistic aspects of photomicrography.


4th Place >> Wasp nest (10X)

One of the great things about the Nikon Small World competition is you don’t have to be a science expert to submit an image and be selected as a winner. A lawyer from Italy, Riccardo Taiariol proves this with his beautiful image of a wasp nest, magnified 10x.

Microscopy is a hobby to Riccardo which he has been involved in for ten years. He generally looks to take pictures of protozoa, flowers and insects, which are relatively easy to find for those who are not scientists by trade.

Riccardo notes the image is significant because it “shows the hard job the insect had to do in order to build it.” It was taken using field stereomicroscopy.

When a former colleague sent him a section of an anglerfish ovary, James E. Hayden of The Wistar Institute came up with the idea of looking at the autofluorescence of the tissue in two colors. His vibrant swirling photomicrograph of developing oocytes, or unfertilized eggs, as they move along the spiral of an anglerfish's ovary came in fourth.

Mr. Hayden said he is drawn to both photographic art and science. “Most microscopists have a streak of artist in them. It’s hard not to. You’re looking at things through a microscope that most people don’t see. The nascent artist in you sort of peeks its head up.”



5th Place >>> (bird of paradise) seed (10X)

Viktor Sykora’s image of a bird of paradise seed was taken as part of a collection he is preparing for a publication about plant microphotography. His primary line of work is medical research and the development of new treatment strategies, but his hobby also happens to be photography.

The goal of this photo was to document variability in shape inside the plant world, which it demonstrates with exceptional aesthetic effect. It was taken using a stereomicroscope and digital camera.



6th Place >> (red seaweed), living specimen (40X)

Affiliation
Murdoch University
School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology
Location
Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
Technique
Brightfield


7th Place >> Yongli Shan,
Endothelial cell attached to synthetic microfibers, stained with microtubules, F-actin and nuclei (2500X)


Affiliation
The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Location
Dallas, Texas, USA
Technique
Fluorescence, Confocal

8th Place >> Honorio Cocera-La Parra,
Cacoxenite (mineral) (18X)

Affiliation
Geology Museum, University of Valencia
Location
Benetusser, Valencia, Spain
Technique
Reflected light


More to come later....:::
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The versatile jackfruit

The versatile jackfruit

The mulberry family contains about sixty general and over 1,500 species of trees and shrubs, found mainly in the tropics. However, only a few, including the fig and mulberry, are used as fruit. Others, including the breadfruit, jackfruit, and champedak are used both as a fruit and as a vegetable. The jackfruit is thought to be native to the rainforests of India, spreading to Sri Lanka, then onto the mainland of Southeast Asia, keeping to the more northerly regions and away from the tropical areas favoured by the breadfruit.

Jackfruit family

Cultivation of the fruit has taken place in India since ancient times, as well as in Southeast Asia, Africa, and tropical regions of America and Australia. The jackfruit is one of the largest fruits grown in tropical Asia. It is often three feet long, twenty inches in diameter, and may weigh over ninety pounds; although they usually average about forty-five pounds. Next to the pumpkin, jackfruit is the largest fruit in the world. A general distinction is made between soft jackfruits, which can be broken open with the hands, and the hard ones which require a knife to open them. Strangely, it is the latter that is preferred, but there are many varieties that do not fall into either category. Some believe that the best variety of all is the peniwaraka (honey jak) from Sri Lanka.
The jackfruit is the largest of all tree-borne fruits, but is really a collection of fruits which fuse together as does another relative, the fig. These large, irregularly shaped oval fruits grow directly from the trunk of the tree on a short stem. Considered to be a composite fruit, it has a structure similar to that of a pineapple, but not as tidy, with sections clustered in irregular clumps and covered with spikes. When the jackfruit is ready to eat, the skin will be stretched out enough for each of the spikes to stand clear of one another. Although the smell of the fresh fruit has a disagreeable musty odour, the flesh inside has an aroma of pineapples and bananas. Inside the fruit and under its green shell are a number of fruit compartments or segments arranged like a wheel. Each fruit contains a few, or upto 500, large starchy edible seeds, which are sometimes called breadnuts, although the true breadnut belongs to a different species. It is the chempedak that is usually the source of the true “breadnuts”. When the fruits are cut crosswise, the individual segments are easier to remove. The fibrous covering can then be carefully peeled from each segment to expose the smooth yellow flesh. The seeds are then removed from each segment.
As the fruit ripens, it is often covered with a bag - not to keep birds away but to encourage ants to swarm around it to repel other insects. When ripe, the jackfruit is used as a fruit; but if picked “green”, it is used as a vegetable. The flesh may be diced or dried and used in soups or in pickles. The seeds are very rich in calcium and protein; but the fruit itself is not very nutrient rich, although it does contain some carotene. In Thailand, the seeds, which are called med kha-nun, are boiled in several changes of water and roasted, then eaten like chestnuts. They can also be pounded into flour. The young shoots and flowers are sometimes eaten as a vegetable. The pulp is firm, thick, and sweet and will continue to ripen even after it is peeled. If the bulbs are boiled in milk and then drained and cooled, the congealed mass that is left forms a pleasant orange-coloured custard. The flesh is sometimes candied by the Chinese and Malaysians.
The jackfruit is very large in size - about 30 to 40 inches in length and 12 to 20 inches in diameter. Only about 30% of the fruit is edible. The fruit has a green to brownish yellow rind and it has numerous small spines in its skin. Edible, very tasty, sweet yellow bulbs are embedded in fibrous interior. It has one and a half to two inch long and 3/4 inch thick seeds.

Courtesy dailyfruits.blogspot.com

FACT BOX

Nutritional Value
Very good source of potassium and vitamin C.
Health Benefits
Jackfruit is rich in potassium which may help to regulate blood pressure.
Varieties
India is the leading jackfruit producing nation. Black Gold(Australia) Cheena (Australia), Cochin (Australia), Dang Rasimi (Thailand), Gold Nugget (Australia), J-30 (Malaysia) and J-31 (Malaysia) are some cultivars available in the US.
Botanical Facts
Jackfruit is an evergreen, 30 to 70 ft tall tree. Humid tropical and near tropical climates are well suited for jackfruit.
Select and Store
Ripe jackfruits are very fragrant. The fruit colour changes from green to yellowish brown when ripe. To remove fruit bulbs, apply cooking oil on hands and utensils to free from gummy latex.

STILL THE PEARL OF THE INDIAN OCEAN?

STILL THE PEARL OF THE INDIAN OCEAN?

This is our life in paradise

By Dr. B.J.C.Perera

Fancy terminology such as “The Pearl of the Indian ocean”, “Paradise isle”, “A land like no other”, “A terrain of unparalleled scenic beauty” and “A haven for tourists” are just some of the superlatives used to describe our much adored motherland. It is generally portrayed as something quite splendid and very special with a cultural heritage going back well over 2500 years. Sandy beaches, smiling people, traditional hospitality and a whole host of other virtues are bandied about quite brazenly to reinforce the claim that this land is singularly unique.
Yet for all that, at least for us the native inhabitants, this tear-drop shaped island has had a chequered past, an acrimonious present and quite an indecisive future. Political turmoil, unprecedented corruption, an unwanted war and virtual dependence on foreign powers for almost everything, are just some of the more important vagaries of these times. Add to this cauldron, the apathy, selfishness and lack of patriotism of many of the populace and one finds a definitive recipe for many of our social catastrophes.
The key elements that have undoubtedly helped to fire the essential element of progress in more developed countries in the Western hemisphere and indeed even the more fortunate areas of our own Asian region are pride in one’s own country and unmitigated patriotism. Those people absolutely love their countries of birth and are extremely proud of their own languages. Just look at Japan, China, Korea and even India for confirmation of this undeniable truth. In contrast, what happens over here? Given half a chance, many of our people would elect to leave this land and be domiciled and become even second-class citizens of an alien country. They call it leaving for greener pastures and securing opportunities. Many of our intellectuals have deserted this land in the hour of its greatest need. Yet, it is so infuriating that some of them are the very same people who are ostensibly “honoured” by the authorities of our own land for internationally acclaimed “achievements”. The honest men and women who have stayed put in Sri Lanka and strived through a lifetime to bear the unenviable burden of trying to uplift this land are generally forgotten. Those who have toiled silently over many decades in the crucible of general deficiencies to do their little thing for the land of their birth would in all probability be allowed to fade away and die silently as well. At least in this country, the axiom is that a prophet is never honoured in his or her own land. In fact, a proud nation worth its salt should consider those who have left the country for good as non-citizens.

English please

Furthermore, we tend to look down on our own beautiful languages. If one were to go into a shop or a hotel and speak in Sinhala, they would look at you as if it is something the cat brought in. It is very slightly and marginally better if one goes into a Tamil or Muslim enterprise and speaks in Tamil. Every single one of these enterprises would bend over backwards and sing hosannas if one speaks in the Queen’s English and for that matter, even disjointed and “broken” English would do. You will generally be treated like royalty and virtually as direct descendents of the British Royal family. Our two wonderful and colourful languages, Sinhala and Tamil are perhaps only for the “yakkos”. The adopted descendents of our colonial masters, the brown sahibs, must speak only in English, just to be understood by all and sundry.
This is not to say that English is not necessary. It is definitely essential for progress and development of our land. It is a fantastic international link language and is spoken in most parts of the globe. Some of the greatest mistakes made by the rulers of this land were the futile attempts made to virtually get rid of it from the legislature. However, our obeisance to English should not be at the expense of our own distinctive languages. The need of the hour is to teach our children all three languages in common usage in Sri Lanka. Children are extremely good at picking up any language and the powers that be should make an extra effort to harness this asset. Proficiency in all three languages would in all probability get rid of the misgivings and suspicion that is inherent in our culture and go a long way towards settling most of our conflicts.

Education in disarray

Another primary need for advancement of any country is its system of education. This is the key that will unlock most closed doors and open up vistas of unlimited opportunities for the people of any land. Lo and behold, what have we got here? In paradise, it is in complete disarray. Interference, political and otherwise, has pervaded the system to the extent that it would need a major overhaul for it to become even moderately functional. Parents would lie through their back teeth and get up to all kinds of tricks to get their children into the so called reputed schools. That hallowed profession of teaching has now been degraded to the level of a spectacle of commercialism. Countless numbers of young people who qualify for higher education cannot enter the universities as the slots available are so very limited and totally inadequate to satisfy the needs of the country. However, those who have been fortunate enough to enter the universities are the very same people who cry foul when even feeble attempts are made to provide higher seats of learning in private institutions to accommodate the less fortunate ones. There you have selfishness at its very zenith and depravity at an absolute nadir. The commonly used argument that it would only help the rich is not at all tenable as steps could be taken by the state to help those who qualify but cannot afford it.
Selfishness is evident even on our roads. The general chaos on our roads must be seen to be believed. The very same lack of discipline in the day-to-day life has pervaded into the roads as well. We are a nation of horn tooters going nowhere. They are all in a hurry, cutting across traffic lanes, steam-rolling all else and just getting there no matter how. Even the most rational and sedate individuals are sometimes transformed into demons when they are put behind the wheel of a vehicle.
Corruption in practically every sphere of life is a blight that has pervaded the social structure to the extent that it is almost considered to be the norm. Even to get a file moved from one desk to another in a public enterprise, palms have to be oiled. It has permeated through and through from the highest levels to the lesser mortals. The original “10% commission” has now reportedly gone up to as much as 40% in certain instances. This is also a manifestation of selfishness and self-preservation. Make hay while the sun shines seems to be the order of the day. Sadly enough there are stories of its spread even to the epitomes of integrity such as the police, armed forces and even the departments that are supposed to mete out justice.
This is indeed a strange country. Generally speaking, the powers that be are hell bent on getting work done but are there rewards for doing something well or productive hard work ? If at all, they are very few and far between. Many people accuse our white rulers of yore of many a sin but the work ethic in our country has changed perceptibly from those colonial times when substantial rewards for diligence and efficiency were the norm. As a result what is operative in our land is the much quoted clich‚ “more work means more trouble, less work means less trouble and no work means no trouble”. To many authorities, the word “reward” is an alien one. A worker who has diligently performed his or her duties for a period of 35 to 40 continuous years gets very little by way of rewards at the end of it all at retirement. That person does not even get a duty-free permit to import a car while a parliamentarian who has put in just a few years would get one to import a super luxury vehicle. It is a curious feature that this situation is initiated and perpetuated from childhood onwards. A child in this paradise isle is often forced to do something well, with the threat of punishment at the end of it all if the task is not undertaken properly. How often do we see a child being rewarded, even just by a gesture, a hug or a word of praise for doing something unusually well ?. Child psychologists would rave and rant about the undesirable elements of coercive behaviour patterns but to no avail. Many people prefer to remain deaf to such pontifications.

Hard working people

It is indeed a great pity that this state of affairs is prevalent in our society. We have our own fair share of potential world beaters. Undoubtedly, there are hard working, diligent and brilliant men and women in our land. Yet, no human being is likely to work for nothing. The prospect of ambitious advancement and rewards at the end of the tunnel would be the factor that could spur individuals on to go through that tunnel and accomplish unbelievable achievements. It is one of several motivating factors such as monetary rewards, career advancement or just plain prestige that would keep one going. These facts are probably a scathing indictment on all of us as a nation Facts have to be faced, however unpalatable they really are. Most of us, especially the politicians, would rave and rant about our heritage that is centuries old but such sentiments alone will not in any way be sufficient to spur development and advancement. The need of the hour is for someone to take this country by the scruff of its neck, shake it into shape and put some sense into the populace. Rogues and scoundrels must be rounded up and punished, public and private sector enterprises cleaned up, merit and reward schemes set up, education streamlined and patriotism rekindled. We will all have to tighten our belts for a few years but it will not kill any of us. We will have to put the shoulder to the wheel and collectively take this country to the far distant Promised Land. Such a manoeuvre would definitely keep our closest competitors in the region just standing in the race for development and survival. Then, and only then, would we be entitled to be happy and contented with our much bandied notion of a proud history and a three century old heritage.

Bopath Ella’s captivating cascade

A day in the life of...
Bopath Ella’s
captivating cascade

Text and photography by W. A. Mahil

The Nation
True to its name, Bopath Ella fall dazzles! A frothy white foam bursts forth from Kuru Ganga which starts from the Adams Peak mountain range. The sheet of water that comes crashing down envelops the area in a fine mist.

As you approach the waterfall, the sound of water echoes all around. When you look up, practically nothing is visible except for a blinding white curtain, which against the sunlight makes the surrounding rolling hills look blue.

Bopath Ella is Sabaragamuwa’s most picturesque waterfall, as voiced by every visitor to this place. The breathtaking spot is about five kilometres away from Kuruwita on the Colombo-Ratnapura main highway. The perennial waterfall is a hot spot for picnickers and lovers from all over the island. The place is too charming to be ignored.

Travelling about five kilometres from Kuruwita, the narrow road branches off on to the right which is motorable for half a kilometre, after which you have to park your vehicle at the car park, maintained by Kuruwita Pradeshiya Saba for a charge of 30 rupees, and wade through a shallow stream to reach the waterfall. For those who can’t wade in the water to reach the waterfall there is a canoe operating in the stream by a villager.

During holidays, visitors throng the area and many people are seen bathing at the small shallow stream at ground level. Unmindful of the crowd, I walked on the pebbled muddy road leading to the waterfall. While absorbing the lush beauty of the environ, I could not ignore the severe environmental pollution in the place. Specially the young crowds who come there to enjoy, take liquor and leave the broken bottles causing grave environmental pollution in the vicinity of the waterfall.

The villagers in the area have a tremendous opportunity to earn their livelihood by selling various goods to the visitors, setting up their stalls beside the road. I learnt from the trader who sells foods to visitors in the spot, that these are evergreen and semi-evergreen forests where small animals like rabbits and fox and a few varieties of birds are occasionally spotted in the periphery. Back to the falls, the continuous stream of white foam at a height of 30 metres, is definitely a sight worth freezing.

It is interesting to see how the waterfall is compartmentalized. The gushing stream actually crashes down like a Bo leaf between two huge rock boulders, curves and forms a second sheet of water. After the steep fall, the water gathers and cascades over another rock boulder.

There are several small streams straying off here and there by the side where you can relax and spend as much time as you want at Bopath Ella falls, even for a whole day.

****

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 12

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 12

By Jayasri Jayakody

Common Ratsnake (Ptyas mucosus) Gerandiya

A large snake with a colouration that varies from black to dark brown occasionally yellow, the Common Ratsnake has a pointed snout and large eyes and nostrils. Its common name is derived from its heavy inclination to prey upon rats.

A very active often diurnal snake it is usually harmless and makes every possible attempt to avoid human confrontation. However the Mr. Hyde of the Common Ratsnake is clearly revealed once cornered. First it hisses in attempt to deter its adversary. If this fails it strikes repeatedly often drawing blood. If captured its frequency of striking is increased. This snake never does well in captivity and often injures itself by striking against glass walls or wire mesh of the vivarium. Therefore it is advisable to never attempt to corner or capture this snake unless you are ready for a rough treatment.

As its name suggests its staple diet consists of rats. (However Burmese specimens seem to avoid rats for some reason) It also preys upon frogs, squirrels, birds, bandicoots, lizards and other snakes. It will even resort to cannibalism if the conditions are right. This snake is known to seek out its prey using its highly developed sense of smell, track it down and capture it after pursuit. It is also known to storm into crevices where rats are known to inhabit and capture its prey by surprise. The prey is quickly swallowed whole often while still alive. Frogs and rats especially can often be heard calling from within its stomach before succumbing due to its digestive fluids. There have even been cases were frogs have been recovered intact from killed individuals.
This snake however often ends up being preyed upon by other species. Mongooses, eagles, kraits and cobras frequently prey upon this snake.

The Common Ratsnake is oviparous. Breeding patterns very considerably according to climate and little has been studied about them in local regions. The male and female tend to remain together for a while after mating has taken place before going their own separate ways. The clutch varies from 9 to 14. The period of gestation and incubation tend to vary considerably as with the size of the eggs which are often 50mm in length.

The hatchlings are usually around 40cm long and very active. They grow very quickly and reach sexual maturity at around 1.5 m in around three years. The average length of this snake is around1.8m with 2.4m being the maximum length though outsized specimens up to 3.3m (sic) are also occasionally reported. This snake sloughs on a monthly basis. This non-venomous snake can be identified at a distance by the characteristic dark brown dorsal and yellowish brown ventral colouration that sets it apart from other Sri Lankan snakes. Its eye is also proportionatly larger than most other snakes. Distributed in the Indian Subcontinent, Afganistan, Southern China, Indo-China, Malay peninsular, Caspian region and Java Sri Lankans naturally know how abundant this snake is. It can be found throughout the island in sheer abundance up to altitudes of over 1800m. It often ventures into human dwellings where it feeds on rodent pests. Unfortunately many Sri Lankans are inclined to chase it away by using kerosene oil (paraffin) regardless of its effectiveness as a rat controller. Jerdon's Polyodont (Sibynophis subpunctatus) Dathigomaraya Little is known about the behaviour of this snake. It is highly active, diurnal and terrestrial feeding mainly on lizards and frogs. Very little has been recorded about its reproductive behaviour. This snake is oviparous and the clutch size is usually between 2 and 5. The eggs measure 19mmx7mm. The females of this non-venomous snake are capable of reproducing once 325mm long. The maximum length for this species is 450mm.A rare snake the Jerdon’s Polyodont is found in India and Sri Lanka, along the west coast of Sri Lanka ranging from Puttalam to Kalutara. It can be found inland as far as Ratnapura but it is absent from the central hills.

Feedback : editor.friday@lakehouse.lk

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 11

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 11

----The Friday' News Paper

By Jayasri Jayakody

Yellow Bellied Sea Snake (Pelamis platurus) Badakaha Muhudu Naya

The only known pelagic specie of sea snake and the sole specie of the genus Pelamis, this snake are easily identified by its characteristic bright yellow underside which could well be an adaptation to protect it from predators for it provides adequate camouflage against the water when seen from below. This snake has a dark dorsal colouration and some may have spots on their tail. Such a colouration would come in handy while ambushing fish. It is a relatively small snake with a slender body and prominent caudal fin, which is in fact its modified tail. This snake is nearly incapable of terrestrial locomotion.

It is a very powerful swimmer but can also float. It prefer the continental shelf but and is occasionally recorded far out in the open ocean which would explain its wide distribution. This snake is capable of cutaneous respiration (directly absorbing oxygen from water) and can remain submerged for up to 3 hours. It is highly diurnal and often spends the night on the seabed. This snake is highly docile in nature and most likely to ignore fishermen who may handle it with impunity.

This specie feeds exclusively on fish. It ambushes its prey which it kills relatively quickly using its highly potent venom.

This snake is viviparous. The brood size is small and within the range of 2 to 10. It does not seem to have a definite breeding season and its reproductive habits vary along its wide distribution. Apparently those that inhabit Sri Lankan waters tend to give birth between January and March when the seas are calm during the inter monsoon phase. The gestation period of these snakes is uncertain and most possibly in the area of 5 to 6 months.

Upon birth, neonates measure between 220-260mm. This snake grows to a maximum length of around 100cm and reaches sexual maturity when over 60cm long.
The lethal venom possessed by this snake is capable of killing a human being within 2 hours.
The venom is neurotoxic yet only a handful of fatalities have been attributed to this snake.
Unfortunately in Sri Lanka specimens that get accidentally caught in fishing nets are occasionally sold as “exotic eels.” There have been cases where people have died after consuming flesh and foetuses of this snake.

This snake can be identified at a glance due to its unique and distinct yellow ventral colouration. Found in the Indian Ocean, Australia, New Zealand, and northern Pacific Ocean from Japan to the western coast of North America. It is an abundant specie with a low risk designation.
A fairly common specie in Sri Lankan waters, often found around the continental shelf. May venture close to the beaches where it often gets caught in fishing nets.

Buff-Striped Keelback (Amphiesma stolata) Aharakukka

A small snake with a slender body and elongated, sharp snout, the Buff-Striped Keelback’s body is often light brown or buff with darker stripes. Its underside is greenish brown or pale brown and head uniformly light brown. The colour of this snake may vary from greenish brown to olive brown. Its slender body is well equipped for high speed movements which it requires during hunting and evasive action while its colouration gives it superb camouflage.

This snake is reputed as one of the most inoffensive of snakes. Many of its local names convey its innocent nature. Often it is referred by the locals as the “the snake that cannot kill” in their native tongues. This snake is diurnal by nature but may hunt at night if highly rewarding. Often frequenting near puddles and areas where frogs take refuge but very rarely enters the water itself. Humans frequently come in contact with this snake and in response it will dart out of danger and hide itself in neighbouring vegetation. If captured it will make no attempt to escape and will not attack even if viciously molested.

This snake feeds almost entirely on frogs. Its preference for frogs is due to the fact that unlike mammals frogs put up little or no resistance once captured. However this snake itself is preyed upon by many larger and fierce snakes, due to its small size and inoffensive nature.

The reproductive habits of this snake vary considerably due to its wide distribution. Mating takes place during the hot months prior to the monsoonal rains during which the snake reduces its amount of activity. In most areas this is between April and June and in Sri Lanka it is between February and May. As soon as the frequency of showers increases and the sporadic showers intensify these snakes emerge from their hiding places in their thousands. The eggs develop within the females for around two months and are ready for discharge by August. The clutch is usually between 4 and 10 but females are capable of producing up to 14 eggs. The female incubates the eggs for another 30 to 35 days until hatching.

Hatchlings of this specie on average measure 150mm. These snakes immediately start to feed on large insects, lizards and earthworms and are in turn preyed upon by large frogs, birds and other reptiles. Those that manage to survive their first year double their length. During the second year of life these snakes continue to grow at a rapid rate and reach sexual maturity when they are three years old. By then they measure on average 45-50cm. Females are generally longer than males. The longest males seldom exceed 55cm while females often reach 60cm or more with occasional lengths of 70cm. This snake is non-venomous.

The lateral light brown or buff stripes which run along the entire body length of this specie often give away its identity at a distance. Its comparatively large eyes are also a good indicator.

Distributed in South Asia, South East Asia, Southern China and Taiwan.
A common and ubiquitous snake in Sri Lanka with a near island wide distribution except for the extreme north and highest peaks of the central hills. It is commonly found around paddy fields, cultivated areas and marshes. If an area has a healthy population of frogs the chances are that there is an equally healthy population of this snake. This snake is becoming exceedingly rare in urbanized areas and fails to thrive in such places most possibly due to lack of suitable prey.

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 9

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 9

By Jayasri Jayakody

Brown Speckled Whip Snake
(Ahaetulla pulverulentus) Henakandaya


An extremely slender snake with a tail measuring a third of its total body length it has dark brown colouration with darker or black speckles. Its head is extremely aerodynamic giving it the capability to strike with extreme speed.

This arboreal snake prefers low lying vegetation to an extent. Appears to be active by day but may be encountered at night as well. It is a very fierce snake and attacks repeatedly if cornered. Like its close relative the Green Vine Snake (Aheatulla nasuta) this snake also leaves teeth deeply gouged within the flesh of its adversary and vehemently rejects captivity.

The Brown Speckled Whip Snake feeds mainly on small lizards and tree frogs. It usually waits hidden for an opportunity and strikes at its unsuspecting prey with lighting speed. The prey is then killed with its powerful jaws. Often the prey is stunned due to shock and has no chance of escape.
Little is known about its reproductive habits. It is viviparous and the brood size is around 5.

Upon birth neonates measure around 600mm and are quite large compared to the mother than most other live born neonates. Little is known about there rate of growth. These snakes may ultimately reach lengths in excess of 1.5m.
Mildly venomous producing local symptoms but bites near the head, neck and spine could have adverse reactions.
The main factor that should be used to distinguish it from A.nasuta is its colour which is brownish instead of green.
Found in South India and Sri Lanka.
A fairly common snake predominantly found in the forests of the central hills, its range includes Kandy, Yatiyanthota, Ratnapura and Peradeniya. It has also been recorded from Horana, Galle, Veyangoda and Kurunagala.
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Banded Racer
(Argyrogena fasciolata) Wal Garandiya

First noticed by Russel in 1776, this snake was christened as Coluber fasciolatus by Shaw.
The Banded Racer is a snake with a near uniform brownish colouration which is occasionally accompanied by the faint white transverse stripes, the remnants of its juvenile colouration. It is capable of flattening its fore body like a cobra. Its body is cylindrical and muscular, making it a very strong and fast snake.

Diurnal and very active, this snake sticks to the forest floor and travels very swiftly avoiding human contact. If cornered it will erect its hood like a cobra and boldly strike if further challenged. It is very difficult to capture and will strike repeatedly and wiggle tenaciously if seized stopping only when exhausted. Once captive it becomes tame gradually but becomes extremely violent if roughly handled or molested.

Chiefly feeds on rats and other small rodents. It may also consume frogs and lizards provided the opportunity. It stalks out its prey and either kills it with its powerful jaws or swallows its prey alive.
Very little is known about its reproductive habits. It is probably oviparous like its closest relatives.

Little is known about is rate of growth. The young are camouflaged with black and white transverse stripes for protection. These stripes deteriorate with age. This snake may reach a maximum length of 1.2m
The Banded Racer is a non venomous snake.

Found in India and Sri Lanka, this rare snake is found in the dry scrubland of the northern part of the island. Its range includes Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Puttalam.

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 8

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 8

By Jayasri Jayakody

Gold and Black Tree Snake
(Chrysopelea ornate) Polmal Karawala


A small arboreal snake with beautifully arranged dorsal black and dark green stripes, this snake’s underside is yellowish green. But its most prominent feature other than its ornamental colouration is it’s ability to pull its ventrals inward and form a ‘parachute’ which enables it to glide for considerable distances, often many metres. It can often be seen gliding from trees to the ground or from tree to tree.
Arboreal and diurnal, this snake, if cornered never hesitates to attack and strikes at its adversary with utmost tenacity. It is seldom seen on the ground.

Due to its spectacular gliding ability and striking beauty it is also known as the Ornate Flying Snake.
Feeds mainly on lizards and may consume bats and other snakes occasionally. The prey is usually pursued or stalked and seized by the neck which is duly crushed by the strong jaws of the snake. It is notorious for its voracious appetite but has a peculiar habit of avoiding frogs.
Very little is known about its breeding habits. Possibly viviparous and according to dissections of gravid females the brood varies from 6 to 11.

Smallest known specimens range in length from 115mm to 150mm. Maturity is reached at around 100cm and the largest specimens measure around 130cm.
Venom is extremely mild, producing little or no marked effects on humans.

This snake can be easily identified at a distance by its unique colouration and ability to glide.
Upon closer inspection it can be verified by its non enlarged vertebral row and collapsible underside.
Found in India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Southern China.
This snake can be found mainly in the Rainforests of the south west and southern part of the island up to altitudes of over 1000m.
Has been recorded at Balangoda, Weyvelwatta, Punagalla and around Colombo. It is not common possibly due to low numbers or due to the fact that it’s arboreal nature ensures less contact with human beings.

Forsten’s Catsnake
(Boiga forsteni) Le Mapila

one of the largest and fiercest members of the genus boiga the colouration of this snake varies with its range but usually light brown with pale mottles and a white underbelly. It is very slender and well adapted for a nocturnal lifestyle with large eyes.
Nocturnal and strictly arboreal, it becomes highly active by late evening and hunts creatures retiring for the night. It is very vicious and attacks repeatedly once cornered. Occasionally ventures near human dwellings in search of prey.

Has a varied diet, feeds on lizards, small mammals and frogs. However its most remarkable aspect is its hunting tactic of birds. It is often seen waiting on the edge of branches until a bird passes and is quite capable of snatching a bird off the wing. It will also raid nests, pigeon houses and poultry farms. It often consumes birds which other snakes avoid due to size and will even take bats provided the opportunity. Its strong jaws make short work of small prey and may strangle it with its coils if required. Its lightning fast movements ensure that its prey has little or no chance of escape.

Little has been observed about its reproductive habits. It is oviparous and the clutch size varies from 7 to 9. The eggs are laid August and September.
On average this snake may measure 1.5m in length. Often outsized adults with lengths in excess of 2m are also recorded.
The bite of this snake is mildly venomous producing local swelling in most cases. Could have adverse effects if the bitten area is near the neck, head, spine or eyes.
The large size of this snake along with 25 to 27 rows of Costals at its midbody will be enough to distinguish it from other boiga spp. Found in India as far north as the Himalayas and Sri Lanka.

A widely distributed and fairly common snake, it is frequently recorded near rivers of the southwest part of the island up to altitudes of over 400m. Somewhat rare in the dry zone and hill country.

Star tortoises *************

Star tortoises

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 7 - from the Friday newspaper

Snakes of Sri Lanka - 7
By Jayasri Jayakody



Blossom Krait (Balanophis ceylonensis) Mal Karawala
A beautiful snake with a lively scarlet colouration, the Blossom Krait has a brown dorsal stripe and thick black longtitudal stripes with a white underbelly. Its eyes are very large and it has a stout cylindrical body with a thick short tail.
A largely terrestrial snake seldom venturing onto trees, this snake is gentle and inoffensive making no attempt to bite even when harassed. If subjected to sudden shock will lie down and stretch itself revealing its scarlet colouration.

Little is known of its food. Probably feeds on small leaf litter fauna such as grubs, worms and slugs.
Very little is known about its reproductive habits. It is oviparous and lays around 2 to 4 eggs in a single clutch. The eggs are quite large for a small snake and measure 40mmx12mm.
Upon hatching the young measure 160mm. These hatchlings grow to a maximum length of around 460mm.
This rare and non venomous snake is endemic to Sri Lanka and is confined to rainforests of the Central Hills. It has been recorded from Peradeniya, Balangoda, Udugama, Yatiyantota and Uva.


Green Keelback (Macropisthodon plumbicolor) Palabariya






The colouration of the young varies considerably from that of the adults. The young are often greenish yellow or fawn in colour with prominent transverse black stripes. (Left) By the second year they often acquire their adult colouration with
a peculiar intermediate phase. (Right)

A small nearly uniformly green snake with occasional black spots, the Green Keelback has a rounded head and blunt snout with large nostrils and eyes.
This docile and inoffensive snake is active mainly by day and moves around by night. If roused it bluffs by spreading out its neck like a cobra and flees with the first opportunity.
Feeds mainly on frogs and may take lizards and other snakes.

This snake is oviparous. Breeding habits vary according to its range. In India mating takes place around December and the eggs are laid in March and April. In Sri Lanka gravid females are often captured in May and June. The gestation period is over 80 days. In Sri Lanka the eggs are laid in August and the clutch varies from 7 to 31. The eggs are laid during a period of over 3 days in captivity but may not be so in the wild. The incubation period for the eggs is not precisely known. The eggs are oval and measure 36mmx21mm.

Upon hatching neonates measure around 150mm. Maturity is reached at around 35cm. The average adult length is 60cm and the maximum length is 90cm. Females are longer and bulkier than the males.
This non venomous snake can be identified by its ability to erect its neck into a hood.
Commonly inhabits grassy areas and low vegetation. Occasionally found in the trees. Prefers green areas were its camouflage is most effective.
Found in India and Sri Lanka.

A fairly common snake in the forests of the central hills at an altitude from over 800-1800m, commonly recorded from Pallekalle, Balangoda, Badulla, Uva and Moragalla. It has also been recorded from Anuradhapura. It may venture down to the planes occasionally.

‘Brief’ Garden of Eden - The Sunday Times

‘Brief’ Garden of Eden

By Rathindra Kuruwita
I have heard stories about Bevis Bawa and his haven ‘Brief.’ It has been called “a playground of the senses,” a place full of inviting nooks, alcoves, leafy recess and cloisters. A little corner in the country that is so tranquil, it encourages one to just lay back and take it slow.

The long winding road
Finding the place that the villagers call ‘Bawa Mahathayage waththa’ proves to be no easy task. After the turn off from the Galle Road, the Kaluwamodara road seems to get narrower with each curve. Although we have a map of sorts hastily drawn by a friend we find it difficult to keep track of our path. We have to pull into an ally to let a bus pass and have a difficult time getting the vehicle back on to the road, without falling into the ditch lining the path.

Finally realising that the map will not do us any good, we venture to do one of the most difficult tasks for a man, to ask directions. The way they give directions, enthusiastically and with smiles and the way they pronounce the name ‘Bawa Mahathaya’ tell us that he is very fondly remembered. And why shouldn’t they, when he has distributed most of his land among the villagers, a fact that I am to learn later.

We reach a slab of wood, which has faded ornate Gothic lettering carved deeply and precisely into it saying ‘Brief.’ We are unaware that ahead of us is a long winding road. We travel down yet another narrow road raised across a marsh. Half way through we confront a motorcycle coming straight at us in full throttle, both parties break violently and the motorcyclist nearly becomes one with the soil. Despite his near death experience, he’s kind enough to give us directions.

The road ends with a hairpin bend that leads to a red clay road, which ends at a circular driveway with iconic gate posts. We wander up the red clay road through a tunnel of green. There is a large, bamboo-hedged circle, which serves as a car park. The front door is set in this hedge, making the house behind it quite invisible to the first glance. A magnificent white bougainvillea conceals the roof.
It’s hot and humid and we ring the bell over the garden door and the caretaker appears. “Only 45 minutes,” he says. “Are you sure you want to spend 400 rupees?” “Right on,” I say digging into my pocket.

‘Brief’
The garden area is so vast that it is difficult not to get lost and all the paths seem to lead to the front door. However, some of the most beautiful spots such as the “hilltop lookout” with a single Araliya tree that I have seen in so many photos are extremely difficult to find.

I ask politely for directions from the caretaker and add that we are from paththaren (newspaper), to drive the point home. He guides us along the perimeter path and leads us to a patch of greensward with a round pond set in the middle. There is an enormous flight of stone steps to climb on to a hill next to the pond. It is perhaps the most grandiose looking spectacle in the garden.

The house
The house is minimalist. The floors are of bare cement, the walls and ceilings are Spartan and without ornament. No signs of etherealness and lavishness. Yet, this is a place of comfort and beauty. The house is full of art, including Bawa’s own work and gifts from his friends, especially Australian painter/sculptor Donald Friend. The sculptures of proportioned male nudes that dot the house and garden stand out among many others.

Donald Friend stayed for more than five years in Brief during 1960s. Therefore his art is strewen across Brief. Among which are a superb mural, which represents Sri Lanka as the favoured isle of Hindu God Skanda, an aluminum sculpture of Aphrodite rising, hides in a nook in the corridor. Terra-cotta tabletops that bear Friend’s designs can be found everywhere.

No more a Garden of Eden
Nearly 80 years ago one man set out to create his own miniature Garden of Eden and succeeded. However, as the caretaker of Brief Nihal says things are gradually falling apart. “Before Mr. Bawa died, he distributed his land among the villagers who served him. We did our best to look after the garden. Yet, this is nothing compared to what it was.” From the dilapidated outhouse to the statues that are being rapidly covered by rust, and the pathways that are under attack by weeds show that Mother Nature is out to reclaim what was once hers.