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Academic Staff member

Prof. K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (Cadre Chair and Senior Professor)

Chair Professor

B.Sc. (Ruhuna, SL)
M.Phil (Bergen, Norway)
Ph.D. (Bergen, Norway)

Email - suneetha@zoo.ruh.ac.lk
Office - 94412222681/+094 412222681, ext 14508; Mobile: +094 715359206

LinnkedIn ResearchGate Google Scholar

  • Teaching / Undergraduate courses
  • Origin and evolution of life (ZOO 1102)
  • Cell Biology (ZOO 1102)
  • Genetics (ZOO 2202)
  • Parasitology (ZOO 4023)
  • Marine Ecology (ZOO 3133, ZOO 4034)
  • Oceanography (ZOO 4034),
  • Molecular Biology & Genetics (ZOO 4144)
  • Molecular Genetics (ZOO 2262)
  • Research Methodology (ZOO2232)
  • (earlier)
  • Fisheries Biology, Fishing gears (ZOO3223), Invertebrate Zoology/ Platyhelminths (ZOO1112), Marine Pollution (ZOO 3272)
  • Parasitology (ZOO3152)
  • Supervision of undergraduate research projects:
  • Jayasekara, J. L. P. S. S. (2002) Investigation of morphological heterogeneity in the catfish Pseudarius jella among four estuarine localities (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna). Supervisor.
  • Gunapala M.M.T.I. (2003). Prevalence of some selected intestinal nematodes in Matara, Sri Lanka, and the effects of Albendazole on them. (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna). Co-supervisor
  • Samarakoon, S.M.A.I. (2005) Study of the morphological and allozyme variation between Mystus gulio, Pseudarius jella, Tachysurus maculatus. (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna). Supervisor
  • Nelka Damayanthi (2007) Study of morphological and allozyme variation between color morphs of a small cyprinid Puntius dorsalis in Sri Lanka (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna). Supervisor
  • Dinusha Rangana Jayawickrama (2008) Intraspecific variation in morphology, and a preliminary analysis of isozymes/ allozymes in Rasbora daniconius (Cyprinidae) (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna) Supervisor
  • Inaza Irfaan (2008). Intraspecific variation in morphology and osteology, and a preliminary analysis of isozymes/ allozymes in the cyprinid Puntius sarana among selected populations in Sri Lanka. (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna) Supervisor
  • D.D. Hettiarachchi (2011). Effects on growth and toxicological correlates in fish upon exposure to contaminated harbor sludge. (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna) Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama)
  • C.H. Weerasinghe (2011). Monkey tapeworm disease in Sounthern Sri Lanka. (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna). Co-Supervisor (Principal Supervisor Prof. Mirani Weerasooriya)
  • Manel Panawala (2013). Effects of crude oil exposure on growth of fish and erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities in Oreochromis niloticus (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna). Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama)
  • M.A. Dilhani (2013). Morphometric variation and osteological analysis of Puntius chola. (BSc dissertation in Zoology, Univ. of Ruhuna) Supervisor
  • Arambage Kanthi (2014). Effects and temporal trends on erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities (ENA) and differential leukocyte counts in red tilapia experimentally exposed to crude oil. Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama)
  • K. I. Hewavithrana (2015). Early development of Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) fries, and the effects of crude oil exposure. Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama)
  • Savindi Pieris (2016). Effects of Acetaminophen exposure on growth, behavior and erythrocyte nuclear morphology of Guppy (Poecilia reticulata). Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama)
  • D.D.S. Dissanayaka (2017). Chronic effects of Acetaminophen exposure on behavior, erythrocyte nuclear morphology and histopathology of juvenile Oreochromis niloticus. Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama)
  • D.M.F. Rifkana (2019). Effects of waterborne Diclofenac on guppy (poecilia reticulata): Behavioural, histpathological, developmental and haematological approach under chronic laboratory exposure. Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama)
  • G.D. Sanduni R. Piumali (2020). Temporal responses to sublethal crude oil exposure in Oreochromis niloticus and an overview of oil spill events in Sri Lanka. Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama)
  • M.V. Jayasinghe (2020). Trends in catch of beach seine fishery at selected landing sites of Kalutara district. Supervisor (Co-Supervisor Dr. K. H. M. A. Deepananda)
  • Prabha Thenuwari Dayawansha (2021). Demographic background, family history, and periconceptional folic acid supplementation associated with primary subfertility in females attending a fertility clinic, Galle, Sri Lanka. (Principal Supervisor Dr Lahiru Probodha).
  • KM Lakshmi Madushika (2021). Selected biomarker responses of Oreochromis niloticus from selected water bodies with reference to the trophic status. (Co-supervisor Dr SHNP Gunawickrama)
  • HP Sumedha Hansamali Wickramarathna (2021). Effects of sublethal levels of ibuprofen on Oreochromis niloticus juveniles. (Co-supervisor Dr SHNP Gunawickrama)
  • Tharuka Siriwardene (2022) Metazoan gill parasites of Etroplus suratensis in response to water pollution in two selected lagoons in Southern province Sri Lanka: a preliminary study. (Co-supervisor KA Mangala Sudarshani)
  • Oshadi Athauda (2022) Effects of a mixture of ibuprofen and acetaminophen on tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) juveniles. (Co-supervisor Dr SHNP Gunawickrama)
  • Kasuni Madhavi (2022). The anti-hyperlipidemic potential of Terminalia chebula dry fruit in Wistar rats: A preliminary study. (Principal supervisor Prof. RP Hewawasam, Faculty of Medicine, UoR)
  • Master thesis supervision
  • Hemanthi, H.L. (2003). The water quality in four selected rural tanks in Matara district in relation to anthropogenic activities (M. Sc. Thesis, PGIS, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka). Principal Supervisor.
  • De Silva, P.M.C.S. (2005) Population structure of Sufflogobius bibarbatus (Van Bonde, 1923) in the Benguela upwelling system based on mtDNA (M.phil. thesis in Fisheries Biology and Management, University of Bergen, Norway). Co-supervisor
  • F. I. Irfan (M. Phil, University of Ruhuna, 2012). Thesis title: Intraspecific variation and taxonomic assessment of Systomus sarana in Sri Lanka. Principal Supervisor.
  • Dinusha Rangana Jayawickrama (2013) M.Sc in Aquaculture Biology, University of Bergen, Norway. Thesis title: Harvest-induced selection on morphological traits of guppies. Co-supervisor
  • Nelka Damayanthi. (M. Phil, University of Ruhuna, 2014). Thesis title: Intraspecific variation of Puntius dorsalis and Puntius vittatus in Sri Lanka: Contribution towards taxonomic and biodiversity assessment. Supervisor. Effective date 2014.12.01
  • Leshika M. Wijesurendra (M.Phil Degree, University of Ruhuna. 2018 Dec 01), Supervisor. Thesis Title 'Identification of phylogenetic units of two cyprinid fishes in Sri Lanka using DNA barcoding and geometric morphometrics'.
  • K. Kushani K. Premawansha (MPhil Degree, University of Ruhuna 2022). Nutritionally balanced cost-effective feed formulation for Asian seabass Lates calcarifer.
  • Ongoing....
  • K.I.G. Hewavitharana (M.Phil. student, 2017 onwards, ongoing), Co-supervisor
  • Sulakkana W. Rathnayake (Mphil student 2020 onwards, ongoing); Principal Supervisor
  • Dhanuska Dilini Jayaweera, Jaffna University (MPhil student 2020 onwards, ongoing; Co-supervisor.
  • Lashanthini Rajendram, University of Ruhuna (Mphil student 2022 onwards, ongoing), Principal Supervisor.
  • Conservation Genetics/ Biodiversity Conservation
  • Fish taxonomy/ Morphometrics for population discrimination
  • Environmental Biology of fishes/ Biological effects of pollutants on fishes
  • My research interests encompass several related areas in biology. My research career started with work related to environmental biology fishes, including marine larval biology, starvation and condition indices, and food and feeding habits of fishes. Some of my work included morphometric differentiation of fish populations related to conservation and biodiversity, and fish taxonomy. During my PhD, I focused more on molecular genetic markers for population and species identification where I used mitochondrial and nuclear DNA markers, allozymes, and DNA sequencing for fishes. My interests also touch other aspects of environmental biology of fishes, including studies of biological effects of pollutants such as crude oil & other pet-hydrocarbons, and environmental pharmaceuticals on fishes in respect to histopathology, ENA, and behavioral endpoints.
  • Collaborations: Aquaculture nutrition, Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown etiology in Sri Lanka (hematological and immunological markers)
  • Funded Research projects:
  • 1. Analysis of morphology in catfishes and its use as a marker for species characterization and population structure (The revised title) (RU/SF/2001/03, Ruhuna university 2001-2002)
  • 2. Development of morphological and genetic markers for an estuarine and a riverine fish species in Sri Lanka (RG/2003/BT/03, NSF, 2003-2007).
  • 3. Field study on optimal growth of selected tilapias in cage culture in Nilwala River, Matara Sri Lanka (12/533/403, CARP, 2003-2006).
  • 4. Assessment of genetic diversity and population structure of four freshwater cyprinid fishes using molecular approach. (NRC 05-60, 2007 – 2009)
  • 5. Isozyme analysis of the two common color morphs of Puntius dorsalis. (RU/RP/SF/2007/01)
  • 6. Geographic variation in Puntius chola. RU/RP/SF/2009/07
  • 7. Barcoding initiative for Sri Lankan Ichthyofauna. Ruhuna University Internationalization grant RU/TURIS/Pro 70. 2012-2015
  • 8. Effects of crude oil exposure on early development of guppy. RU/RP/SF/2014/05
  • 9. Effects of environmental exposure of selected human pharmaceuticals on behavior, histology, and erythrocyte nuclear morphology of fish. RU/RP/SF/2017/06
  • 10. CARP Grant- Seabass Aquacuture nutrition (Co-investigator) 2021-2023
  • Journal Papers:
  • Jayaweera DD, Gunawickrama KBS, Evenset A, Kuganathan S. (2024). Bioaccumulation of Cadmium in Muscle and Liver Tissues of Juvenile Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) from the Indian Ocean. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol. 2024 Jul 13;113(1):10. doi: 10.1007/s00128-024-03917-7. PMID: 39001943.
  • D. D. S. Dissanayaka, S. H. N. P. Gunawickrama, T. N. Dharmapriya & K. B. S. Gunawickrama (2023) Effects of acetaminophen exposure on behavior and erythrocyte nuclear morphology of juvenile Oreochromis niloticus, Drug and Chemical Toxicology, DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2023.2291983
  • GDSR Piumali, SHNP Gunawickrama, KB Suneetha Gunawickrama (2022). Effects on liver somatic index, erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities and biliary metabolites of PAH in Oreochromis niloticus exposed to water-borne crude oil. International Journal of Biosciences 21(5): 184-191.
  • K. Kushani K. Premawansha, M. P. Kumudu S. K. de Silva, K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama, Bjørn-Steinar Sæther (2022). Nutritional evaluation of fish feeds formulated with fish discards or shellfish waste as alternative protein sources. Fishery Technology 59: 39-48.
  • SHNP Gunawickrama, ARN Silva, PGCL Nanayakkara, KBS Gunawickrama, JMKB Jayasekara, NV Chandrasekharan (2022). Metals and Metallothionein expression in relation to progression of Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Etiology (CKDu) in Sri Lanka. Diseases 10(2):34, doi:10.3390/diseases10020034
  • SHNP Gunawickrama, KIG Hewavitharana, PGCL Nanayakkara, KBS Gunawickrama (2022). Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Etiology (CKDu) in Sri Lanka: Hematological Changes and Pro-Inflammation Suggest Likely Predictors of Advance Disease, as Renal Outcomes Show Prevalent Normoalbuminuria. Diseases 10, 2: 1-14. https://doi.org/10.3390/ diseases10010002
  • SHNP Gunawickrama, KIG Hewavitharana, ARN Silva, PGCL Nanayakkara, KBS Gunawickrama, JMKB Jayasekara (2020). Risk Factor Distribution among Subjects with Declined Estimated-Glomerular Filtration Rate in Areas Endemic to Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Aetiology of Sri Lanka. Journal of Kidney 6:179, p1-7. doi-10.35248 /2472-1220.20.6.179.
  • K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama, Aur�lien Delaval, Torild Johansen, Anja K. van der Plas, Anne Gro Vea Salvanes (2020). Genetic structure of Sufflogobius bibarbatus in the Benguela upwelling ecosystem using microsatellite markers. Journal of Applied Ichthyology. https://doi.org/10.1111/jai.14002
  • S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, P.D.S.M. Panawala, K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2016). Impaired growth and erythrocyte nuclear lesions of immature Oreochromis niloticus exposed to waterborne crude oil: Persistent responses. Sri Lanka Journal of Aquatic Science 21 (2): 113-124.
  • S. H. N. P. Gunawickrama, D. D. Hettiarachchi and K. B. S. Gunawickrama (2014). Effects of contaminated harbour sediment on the growth and histopathology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): A long-term study. Journal of University of Ruhuna (JUR), 2: 13-22.
  • Suneetha Gunawickrama K.B., Jon-Ivar westgaard, Anne Gro Vea Salvanes, Torild Johansen (2012). Characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers for the bearded goby Sufflogobius bibarbatus. Conservation Genetics Resources 4:187-189: DOI 10.1007/s12686-011-9505-5
  • F. Inaza Irfan and K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2011). Osteological variation of the olive barb Puntius sarana (cyprinidae) in Sri Lanka. Journal of National Science Foundation Sri Lanka 39(2): 121-128
  • Suneetha Gunawickrama K. B., De Silva P.M.C.S., Johanson T, Salvanes A.G.V., Naevdal G. (2010). Preliminary evidence for genetic heterogeneity of the goby (Sufflogobius bibarbatus) in the Benguela ecosystem. Journal of Applied Ichthyology 26: 110-112.
  • Suneetha K. B. and Salvanes A.V.G. (2001). Population genetic structure of the glacier lantern fish, Benthosema glaciale (Myctophidae) in Norwegian waters. Sarsia- North Atlantic Marine Science: 86: 203-212
  • Suneetha K. B. and Naevdal G. (2001). Genetic and morphometric analysis of the stock structure of pearlside Maurolicus muelleri (Pisces: Sternoptychidae) among Norwegian fjords and offshore area. Sarsia- North Atlantic Marine Science: 86: 191-201
  • Suneetha K. B., Dahle G. and Naevdal G. (2000). Analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences from two Maurolicus taxa (Pisces: Sternoptychidae): evidence for separate species? Journal of Fish Biology 57: 1605-1609
  • Suneetha K. B., Folkvord A. and Johannessen A. (1999). Responsiveness of selected condition measures of herring (Clupea harengus L.) larvae to starvation, in relation to ontogeny and temperature. Environmental Biology of Fishes 54:191-204
  • K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2008). Intraspecific variation in morphology and sexual dimorphism in Puntius singhala (Teleostei: Cyprinidae). Ceylon Journal of Science (Bio. Sci.), 37: 167-175.
  • K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2007). Morphological heterogeneity in some estuarine populations of the catfish Arius jella (Ariidae) in Sri Lanka. Ceylon Journal of Science (Biol. Sci.), 36 (2): 101-108.
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama. (2007). Morphological heterogeneity and population differentiation in the green chromide Etroplus suratensis (Pisces: Cichlidae) in Sri Lanka. Ruhuna Journal of Science 2: 71-80.
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama & Chandana E.P.S. (2006). Some hydrographic aspects of Koggala lagoon with preliminary results on distribution of the marine bivalve Saccostrea forskalli: pre-tsunami status. Ruhuna Journal of Science, 1: 16-23.
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama & Damayanthi H.G.B.N. (2008). Isozyme and morphological confirmation for species-level divergence between Puntius dorsalis (Pisces: Cyprinidae) and its presumed red-fin variety in Sri Lanka. Ruhuna Journal of Science 3: 25-33.
  • Abstracts/ full papers in Proceedings of Scientific symposia/ conferences
  • Dhanushka D. Jayaweera, Sivashanthini Kuganathan, K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama and Anita Evenset (2024). Tissue-specific cadmium levels in yellowfin tuna caught from southern and western waters off Sri Lanka. Pg 35, Proceedings of the 6th National Symposium on Agriculture, Eastern University of Sri Lanka, March 06, 2024.
  • Rathnayake R.M.S.W., Guruge W.A.H.P., Gunawickrama S.H.N.P., and Gunawickrama K.B.S. (2024). Zooplankton assemblages in Nilwala River and Madu River estuaries in Southern Sri Lanka as indicators of ecosystem health. Pg 30 , Proceedings of 11th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2024, University of Ruhuna, Jan 24, 2024.
  • M.G.K. Madhavi, K.B.S. Gunawickrama, R.P. Hewawasam (2023). Potential of the aqueous extract of Terminalia chebula (Aralu) powdered dry fruit in reducing serum triglyceride levels – A pilot study in albino Wistar rats. Pg 30, Proceedings of the 43rd Annual Sessions of the Institute of Biology (IOB), Sri Lanka, Sep 22, 2023.
  • B.M.K.M.T. Siriwardane, K.A.M. Sudarshanie, K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2023). Metazoan Gill Parasites of Etroplus suratensis In Two Selected Lagoons in Southern Province of Sri Lanka: a Preliminary Study. Proceedings of 20th Academic Sessions of University of Ruhuna, June 7, 2023. Pg. 51.
  • A.R.O.G. Athauda, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2023). Effects of Exposure to Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen mixtures in Oreochromis niloticus Juveniles. Proceedings of 20th Academic Sessions of University of Ruhuna, June 7, 2023. Pg. 52.
  • K.K.K. Premawansha, M.P.K.S.K. De Silva, and K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2023). Growth, Feed Utilization, Survival and Fillet Nutrition Aspects of Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer ) Fed Diets with Shellfish and Fisheries Discards as Fish Meal Replacements. Proceedings of International Conference on Applied Sciences (ICAPS), Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, May 30-31, 2023, Pg 59.
  • Rathnayake R.M.S.W., Guruge, W.A.H.P., Gunawickrama S.H.N.P. and Gunawickrama K.B.S. (2023). A preliminary survey on macrobenthic communities in Nilwala river and Madu Ganga estuaries in Sri Lanka. Pg 10, Proceedings of 10th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2023, University of Ruhuna, Jan 18, 2023.
  • H. P. S. H. Wickramarathna, S. H. N. P. Gunawickrama, K. B. S. Gunawickrama (2022). Effects of Sub-lethal Exposure of Ibuprofen on Laboratory- reared Oreochromis niloticus Juveniles: An Integrative biomarker Study. Pg 56, Proceedings of the 42nd Annual Sessions of the Institute of Biology (IOB), Sri Lanka, Sep 30, 2022
  • P.T. Dayawansha, L.B.L. Prabodha, K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2022). Demographic background, family history and periconceptional folic acid supplementation associated with primary subfertility in females attending a fertility clinic, Galle, Sri Lanka. Poster presentation. Proceedings of 19th Academic Sessions of University of Ruhuna, March 02, 2022. Pg. 73.
  • K.M.L. Madushika, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2022). Preliminary assessment of biomarker responses in Oreochromis niloticus from selected water bodies with reference to the trophic status. Poster presentation. Proceedings of 19th Academic Sessions of University of Ruhuna, March 02, 2022. Pg. 99.
  • RGDR Jayawickrama, KBS Gunawickrama (2022). Phenotypic plasticity in orange and black color-patches in wild guppy (Poecilia reticulata Peters) linked to habitat characteristics. Pg 26, Proceedings of 9th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2022, University of Ruhuna, Jan 19, 2022.
  • Piumali GDSR, Gunawickrama S.H.N.P. and Gunawickrama K.B.S. (2021). Short term variation in liver somatic index, erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities and biliary PAH metabolite levels of Oreochromis niloticus upon experimental exposure to water-borne crude oil. Pg 45, Proceedings of 8th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2021, University of Ruhuna, Feb 17, 2021.
  • Premawansha KKK, Saether BS, De Silva MPKSK and Gunawickrama K.B.S. (2021). Nutritional properties of two formulated diets using fisheries by-products: an alternative for fishmeal in fish diets. Pg 33, Proceedings of 8th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2021, University of Ruhuna, Feb 17, 2021.
  • M.V. Jayasingha, K.H.M.A. Deepananda, K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2020). Beach seine fishery yield at selected landing sites of the Kalutara district: Past trends and future predictions. pg 19, Proceedings of the Scientific Sessions of the Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (SLAFAR) Dec 10, 2020.
  • DMF Rifkana, SHNP Gunawickrama and KBS Gunawickrama (2019). Effects of waterborne Diclofenac on guppy (Poecilia reticulata): behavioural, histopathological, developmental and haematological approach under chronic laboratory exposure. (Full paper) In: Proceedings of 12th International Research Conference, Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka. p 661-668.
  • L.M. Wijesurendra and K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2019). Molecular evidence for revalidation of synonyms Systomus spilurus and Systomus timbiri (Cyprinidae) as two separate species in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of 6th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2019, University of Ruhuna, Jan 31, 2019
  • ARN Silva, KIG Hewavitharana, GWGP Kumara, RH Karunarathna, PGCL Nanayakkara, KBS Gunawickrama, JKMB Jayasekara, RMKT Rathnayaka, SHNP Gunawickrama (2019). Comparative Assessment of eGFR Variants in CKD Diagnosis: A Study in Padaviya Area of Sri Lanka. Abstracts/ Allied Health Sciences p 243, 12th International Research Conference, Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka.
  • R.G.D.R. Jayawickrama, K.B.S. Gunawickrama, B. Diaz-Pauli, Mikko Heino (2018). Shape variation in relation to predation and other habitat features in selected guppy (Poecilia reticulata) populations of Sri Lanka – A preliminary study. Pg 28, Proceedings of the 38th Annual Sessions of the Institute of Biology (IOB), Sri Lanka, Sep 28, 2018.
  • Dissanayaka D.D.S., Gunawickrama S.H.N.P. and Gunawickrama K.B.S. (2018). Effects of acetaminophen exposure on behaviour, erythrocyte nuclear morphology and gill histology of juvenile Oreochromis niloticus: an experimental study. Pg 43, Proceedings of 5th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2018, University of Ruhuna, Feb 15, 2018.
  • A.R.N. Silva, D.D.S. Dissanayaka, W.A.C. Karunarathne, G.W.G.P. Kumara, R.H. Karunarathna, P.G.C.L. Nanayakkara, K.B.S. Gunawickrama, A.V. Ranasinghe, J.M.K.B. Jayasekara, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama (2017). Combinative criteria for identifying stages of CKD patients using both eGFR and urine Albumin to Creatinine ratio. Pg. 89, Proceedings of 10th International Research Conference- General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Aug 3-4, 2017.
  • K.I.G. Hewavitharana, P.L.B.C. Liyanage, A.R.N. Silva, G.W.G.P. Kumara, R.H. Karunarathna, A.V. Ranasinghe, J.M.K.B. Jayasekara, P.G.C.L. Nanayakkara, K.B.S. Gunawickrama, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, (2017). Risk factor distribution among people affected with the chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Padaviya, Sri Lanka. Pg. 49, Proceedings of 10th International Research Conference- General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Aug 3-4, 2017.
  • H.R.C.S. Peiris, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2017). Behavioural changes caused by waterborne acetaminophen exposure in the guppy Poecilia reticulata. Pg., Proceedings of 10th International Research Conference- General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Aug 3-4, 2017.
  • K.I.G. Hewavitharana, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2017). Post-hatch ontogenetic changes and their functional significance in guppy fires (Poecilia reticulata) revealed by histology and osteology. Pg 30, Proceedings of 4th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2017, University of Ruhuna, Jan 26, 2017.
  • Gunawickrama K.B.S, Johansen T., van der Plaz A., Salvanes A.G.V. (2016). Population analysis by microsatellite markers of bearded goby Sufflogobius bibarbatus in the Benguela system linked to hydrographical conditions. Benguela 2016.- Opportunity, Challenge & Change Symposium. University of Cape Town, South Africa, 15th-18th November 2016. Pg 22 Symposium Guide & Book of Abstracts.
  • K.I.G. Hewavitharana, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, and K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2016). Short term exposure to WAF of crude oil induces pathologic lesions in guppy (Poecilia reticulata) fries: a freshwater study. Pg. 205 Proceedings of 9th International Research Conference- General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sep 8-9, 2016.
  • L.M. Wijesurendra and K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2016). Taxonomic assessment of Puntius thermalis in Sri Lanka using DNA barcoding. Pg 31, Proceedings of 3rd Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2016, University of Ruhuna, Jan 28, 2016.
  • H.G.B. Nelka Damayanthi and K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2015). Morphometric variation in Sri Lankan populations of Puntius vittatus and a comparative analysis with some Indian specimens. Pg 59, Proceedings of 2nd Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2015, University of Ruhuna, Jan 22-23, 2015
  • A. Kanthi, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2015). Temporal trends in erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities and leukocyte counts of hybrid red Tilapia upon prolonged exposure to crude oil. Pg 61, Proceedings of 2nd Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference RISTCON 2015, University of Ruhuna, Jan 22-23, 2015.
  • L. M. Wijesurendra and K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama. (2014). Geometric Morphometric analysis of selected populations of Puntius chola (Cyprinidae) in Sri Lanka. Pg 74, Book of abstracts First RISTCON 2014, University of Ruhuna, Jan 22-23, 2014
  • S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, Manel Panawala and K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2014). Growth effects and erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities in juvenile Oreochromis niloticus experimentally exposed to crude oil. Pg 70, Book of abstracts First RISTCON 2014, University of Ruhuna, Jan 22-23, 2014
  • F.I. Irfan and K.B.S. Gunawickrama (2013). Use of osteometric features to differentiate populations of Puntius sarana (cyprinidae) in Sri Lanka. In Abstracts of the 4th International Symposium of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Jan 11-12, 2013. Pg. 67
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama, D.D. Hettiarachchi, S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama. (2010). Effects of long term exposure to contaminated harbor sludge on growth performance of juvenile Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. In Abstracts of the 3rd International symposium of Sabaragamuwa University Sri Lanka, August, 2010, pg 131.
  • Suneetha K. B., Amarasinghe N. J. De. S., Chandana E. P. S., Bandara K. M. S. J. J. (2003). Study of characteristics of Koggala lagoon in southern Sri Lanka in relation to the construction of a breakwater, and associated impact on fishing community. In program and abstracts of the International conference on wetlands: conflict or compromise, January 17-18, 2003, Colombo.
  • Suneetha K. B., Naevdal G. and Salvanes A.G.V. (1999). Genetic substructure of the mesopelagic fish Benthosema glaciale in Norwegian waters detected by analysis of isozymes. Abstract in the Proceedings of the 34th European Marine Biology Symposium, Ponta Delgada, Azores, 13-17 September, 1999. p. 97-98.
  • Suneetha K. B. (2005). Morphological heterogeneity in the Green Chromide Etroplus suratensis (Pisces: Cichlidae) among six estuaries in Sri Lanka. 85th Joint annual meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, Tampa, Florida, USA, July 2005. Abstract of proceedings- appeared in the symposium website. (www.asih.org/files/meetings/2005/abstracts2005pt4.pdf)
  • H.G.B.N. Damayanthi and K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2015). Morphometric variation in Sri Lankan populations of Puntius dorsalis, and a comparative analysis with specimens from India. Proceedings of 12th Academic Sessions of University of Ruhuna, March 05, 2015. Pg. 42
  • M. Anusha Dilhani and K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2014). Population differentiation and sexual dimorphism of Puntius chola (Pisces: Cyprinidae) in Sri Lanka revealed from morphometric and osteological data. Proceedings of 11th Academic Sessions of University of Ruhuna, March 19, 2014. Pg. 96
  • F.I. Irfan & K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2013). Morphological variation in some populations of Systomus sarana in Sri Lanka and a comparative analysis with Systomus sarana from Kerala-India. Abstract in Proceedings of 9th science Symposium, University of Ruhuna 2013 Jan, pg 35.
  • S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama, D.D. Hettiarachchi, K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2013). Gill and Liver histological alterations in juvenile Oreochromis niloticus exposed to contaminated sediment from a fisheries harbor. Abstract in Proceedings of 9th science Symposium, University of Ruhuna 2013 Jan, pg 33.
  • C.H. Weerasinghe, K.B.S. Gunawickrama, C. Yahathugoda, M.V. Weerasooriya (2011). A survey of knowledge, attitudes and perceptions (KAPs) of monkey tapeworm disease in Matara District. Abstract in Proceedings of 8th science Symposium, University of Ruhuna 2011 Dec, pg 12
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama, D.A.M. Dilrukshana & S.H.N.P. Gunawickrama (2010). Evidence for geographic heterogeneity and population differentiation in Puntius chola (Cyprinidae) using morphometric analysis. Abstract in Proceedings of 7th science Symposium, University of Ruhuna 2010 Dec, pg 53.
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama and R.G.D.R. Jayawickrama. (2010) Cryptic diversity of the genus Rasbora (Cyprinidae) in Sri Lanka revealed by morphometric analysis. Abstract in Proceedings Part I - SLAAS 66 th Annual session Sri Lanka, to be held in Dec 2010, pg 60.
  • F. Inaza Irfan and K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2009). Geographic variation in Puntius sarana (Cyprinidae) revealed by comparative osteology. Abstract in Proceedings of 19th Annual seessions-SLAFAR, Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Sri Lanka foundation Institute, Colombo, 2009 June 19, pg 6.
  • R.G.D.R. Jayawikrama & K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama. (2009). Morphological variation in Rasbora daniconius (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) among selected geographic populations. Abstract in Proceedings of 5th science Symposium, University of Ruhuna 2009 Feb, pg 28.
  • F. Inaza Irfan and K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2009). Intraspecific variation in morphology and osteology in Puntius sarana (Teleostei: Cyprinidae). Abstract in Proceedings of 5th science Symposium, University of Ruhuna 2009 Feb, pg 26-27.
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama & Damayanthi H.G.B.N. (2008). Isozyme and morphological variation between Puntius dorsalis (long-snouted barb) and its presumably conspecific red-fin variety. Abstract in Proceedings of SLAAS 64th Annual session Sri Lanka, 2008 Dec, pg 76.
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2008). Extremely low genetic variability in Etroplus suratensis (cichlidae) revealed by isozymes, microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA sequences. (Abstracts in Proceedings of SLAAS 64th Annual session Sri Lanka, 2008 Dec, pg 83.
  • K.B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2008). Spatial variation and sexual dimorphism in morphology of Puntius singhala (Cyprinidae). Abstracts in Proceedings of SLAAS 64th Annual session Sri Lanka, 2008 Dec. pg. 84.
  • Suneetha K. B. and Dahle G. (2001). Species characterization using mitochondrial DNA sequences: a preliminary study using fishes of family Myctophidae. Abstract in Proceedings of SLAAS 57th Annual session, 2001; pg 186.
  • J. L. P. S. S. Jayasekara and Suneetha K. B. (2002). Intraspecific morphological variation in the catfish Pseudarius jella among four estuaries. In program and abstracts of the First Science Symposium, University of Ruhuna, Matara Dec 11, 2002.
  • Books
  • Suneetha Gunawickrama (2009). Basic concepts of Genetics, Probability and Statistics. Stamford Lake Publishers Pvt Ltd, Colombo. ISBN: 978-955-658-175-1; 1-121 pgs
  • K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2014). Essentials of Animal Parasitology. Stamford Lake Publishers Pvt Ltd, Colombo. ISBN: 978-955-658-381-6; 1-144 pgs
  • K. B. Suneetha Gunawickrama (2015). Seashore: Ecological Notes. Author-publication. ISBN: 978-955-41570-0-2; 1-70 pgs
  • Thesis/ dissertations
  • Suneetha K. B. (2000). Intraspecific and interspecific genetic variation in selected mesopelagic fishes, with emphasis on microgeographic variation and species characterization (PhD thesis, University of Bergen ISBN 82-7744-080-4)
  • Suneetha K. B. (1996). Effects of starvation on selected condition measures including RNA:DNA of herring (Clupea harengus) larvae, in relation to temperature and size. M.Phil. thesis, University of Bergen, Norway.
  • Suneetha K. B. (1990). Food and feeding habits of two catfish species Macrones gulio and Pseudarius jella of Nilwala River estuary in southern Sri Lanka. B.Sc. thesis, University of Ruhuna.
  • Presidential awards for research Publications 1999
  • Presidential awards for research Publications 2000
  • Presidential awards for research Publications 2001
  • Presidential Scholarship 2003
  • Society Memberships
  • Member- Society for Conservation Biology (www.conbio.org), since 2011/2012.
  • Member - Asian Fisheries Society, since 2011/2012
  • Life member of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS), since 2001.
  • Member- International Society of Zoological Scientists (ISZS)
  • Member of the Senior Scientists Forum, National Science and Technology Commission (NASTEC), Sri Lanka.
  • Life Member, Institute of Biology, Sri Lanka (M. I. Biology), from 2012
  • Life member; SLAFAR (Sri Lanka Association for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources), since 2009
  • Other contributions (last 5 years)
  • Sri Lanka country Coordinator, Norway -Sri Lanka partnership project NOR-LANKA BLUE. https://blue2023.weebly.com
  • Member- Board of Management, Center For International Affairs, UoRuhuna (2019 onwards)
  • Council member- Institute of Biology Sri Lanka (2018)(2022)
  • Editor-in Chief (Biological Sciences); Ruhuna Journal of Science, since 2012 onwards
  • Member of the advisory board, Asian Journal of conservation Biology 2013 onwards. http://www.ajcb.in/advisory.php
  • Member, Sports Advisory Board, University of Ruhuna (2017-2018)
  • Member, By-Law Review Committee, University of Ruhuna (2017 on wards)
  • Head, Department of Zoology, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka June 17, 2013-2016.
  • Chair-Library Committee, Faculty of Science, University of Ruhuna (2019-2021)
  • Resource Person, CCPDHE (Certificate of Continuous professional development in HE) 2014-2016. Staff development activity, Module 8, University of Ruhuna
  • Scientific committee member, International Conference on Biodiversity, Nov 5-6, 2015, Colombo, Sri Lanka, organized by The International Institute of Knowledge Management TTIKM, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
  • Patron- Zoological Society 2017->
  • Advisory Board- Birders' Club
  • Career/ Experience
  • Current position: Cadre Chair (Professor of Zoology)
  • Senior Professor
  • Previous:
  • Professor in Zoology: Sept 2014- Sept 2022
  • Associate Professor: Sept 2009 to Sept 2014
  • Senior Lecturer Grade I and II: Jan 01, 2001 to Sept 08, 2009
  • Lecturer: March 15, 1991 to Dec 31, 2000.