Prof. Menaka Fernando
+94 71 817 0319

Prof. Menaka Fernando

Professor
Department of Crop Science,
Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna,
Mapalana, Kamburupitiya,
Sri Lanka 81100
Profile QR Code
Research Interests
Organic fertilizers Underutilized crops root system architecture of crops Agroecology and sustainable intensification Nutrient-use efficiency and soil fertility management Organic waste recycling and compost/vermicompost systems Drought and moisture-stress responses in crops
Qualifications

Biography

Dr. Menaka Fernando is a Professor in the Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna. She works on agroecology and agronomy, with emphasis on resource-efficient crop production. Her interests include root system architecture, nutrient-use efficiency, and organic/low-input farming approaches. She contributes to teaching and supervision in agroecology, agronomy, and sustainable farming. She promotes evidence-based solutions that improve productivity while safeguarding soil health and ecosystems.

Awards

Total: 12
  • 01
    President's Award for Scientific Publication (2017), A special award from the Government of Sri Lanka for the contribution of Scientific Research
  • 02
    Best Poster Presenter Award - 18th Academic Sessions and 17th Vice Chancellor's Awards Ceremony, University of Ruhuna
  • 03
    Best Oral Presenter Award - International Conference on Agriculture, Food Security
  • 04
    Commonwealth Scholarship Award - University of Nottingham (PhD, 2011-2015)
  • 05
    Norwegian Government Scholarship - Norwegian University of Life Science (MSc, 2005-2008)
  • 06
    Gold Medal - Dr. S. K. Charles Memorial Gold Medal - Most outstanding performance at the Degree of Bachelor of the Science of Agriculture Final Examination
  • 07
    Gold Medal - Upali Wijewardhena Memorial Gold Medal - All the examinations leading to the Degree of Bachelor of the Science of Agriculture and obtained the highest aggregate marks
  • 08
    Gold Medal - Prof. Y. D. A. Senanayake Gold Medal - Highest marks in Crop Science at all the annual examinations of the Bachelor of the Science of Agriculture course
  • 09
    Gold Medal - D. H. E. Mohotti Memorial Gold Medal - The best performance in the Farm Practice Course at the Faculty of Agriculture
  • 10
    Gold Medal - Ronie De Mel Gold Medal - First class with the highest aggregate marks in the Final Examination leading to the Degree of Bachelor of the Science of Agriculture Final Examination
  • 11
    Gold Medal - Dr. P. S. J. W. Serasinghe Memorial Gold Medal to the graduate who obtained a distinction pass for Crop Science at the 300 series examination and followed specialization course in Crop Science and passed the Degree of Bachelor of Science of Agriculture with First Class (Honours)
  • 12
    The Best Presenter at the 5th Annual Graduate Research Seminar - 2003 held at Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka

Research Grants

Total: 5
  • 01
    Co-Investigator - Crops for the future: Investigating the effects of applying Silicon on enhancing drought tolerance and water use efficiency of selected widely grown field crops of Sri Lanka Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy (SLCARP) NARP/2025/UR/AG/02- Rs. 4.4 million
  • 02
    Co-Investigator - Crops for the future: Enhancing Drought tolerance in Maize ( Zea mays ) Through Silicon Application for Climate-Resilient Agriculture in Sri Lanka. University of Ruhuna - Research Grant Rs. 188,000.00
  • 03
    Co-Investigator - Designing and developing a cost-effective, self-cooling automated polytunnel system for the low-country wet zone in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy (SLCARP) NARP/2024/UR/AG/02- Rs. 4.5 million
  • 04
    Co-Investigator - Physiological Responses of Contrasting Rice ( Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes to Salinity Stress at Seedling and Reproductive Stages University of Ruhuna - Research Grant Rs. 230,000.00
  • 05
    Principal Investigator of the project titled Mapping spatial variability of salinity of irrigation water in Paddy Fields in Kamburupitiya area using electromagnetic conductivity meter Southern Province Irrigation Department Research Grant Rs. 200,000.00

Journal Publications

Total: 32
01
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S., Fernando, K.M.C., Withanawasam, D.M and Wathugala, D.L (2026). Long-term effects of rice husk biochar on the milling traits of rice (Oryza sativa L.) grown in Low country dry zone of Sri Lanka: Evidence from a four-season field experiment under urea application. Journal of the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka, 54 (2): 213-228. https://doi.org/10.4038/jnsfsr.v54i2.12815
View DOI
02
Gamage, K.R.R., Fernando, K.M.C., Fernando, G.S.N and Thudugala, P.K (2026). Development of Value-Added Tropical Almond (Terminalia catappa L.) and Evaluation of Physicochemical, Sensory, Nutritional and Shelf-life Properties. Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension. 29(2): 82-98. https://doi.org/10.4038/tare.v29i2.5823
View DOI
03
Samantha, A.A and Fernando, K.M.C (2026). Effect of Sole and Combined use of Earthworms (Perionyx excavatus) and Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetic illucens) on Decomposition of a Selected Organic Substrate and Live Biomass Production, Journal of the University of Ruhuna, 14(1).
04
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Wathugala, D.L., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S., Fernando, K.M.C and Withanawasam, D.M (2026). Effect of single application of rice husk biochar and seasonal application of Urea on Grain Nutritional and Morphometric Traits of Rice: Four seasonal field experiment. Tropical Agricultural Research, 37(2): 110-127. https://doi.org/10.4038/tar.v37i2.9007
View DOI
05
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Fernando, K.M.C., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S., Withanawasam, D.M. and Wathugala, D.L (2025). Synergistic effects of rice husk biochar and urea fertilizer on rice growth performance, soil properties, and nitrogen use efficiency. Journal of the University of Ruhuna, 13(2): 94-111. https://doi.org/10.4038/jur.v13i2.8092
View DOI
06
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Wathugala, D.L., Fernando, K.M.C. and Withanawasam, D.M. (2025). Multifaceted Role of Biochar in Sustainable Rice Cultivation: A short Review. Journal of Technology and Value Addition, 7(1): 1-29.
07
Kumarasinghe, P.D.G.I.H., Jayawardhana, W.R.S and Fernando, K.M.C (2024) Effect of epidermal mucous secretion of earthworms and other selected organic substances on rooting of semi-hardwood cuttings of Citrus aurantifolia and top cuttings of Dracaena sanderiana. Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension. 27(2): 77-86. https://doi.org/10.4038/tare.v27i2.5700
View DOI
08
Herath, H.M.T.K., Karunarathne, W.M.A.M., Kumarasinghe H.K.M.S and Fernando, K.M.C. (2024). Storage root production of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) as affected by number of nodes per cutting and de-budding of axillary buds under container gardening in the Wet Zone of Sri Lanka. Journal of the University of Ruhuna, 12(2): 99-109. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4038/jur.v12i2.8046
View DOI
09
Fernando, K.M.C and Rathnayake, R. M. N. P (2024). Vermistabilization of Corn Cob Husk and Seed Germination Bioassay of Vigna unguiculata for Quality Assessment of Vermicompost. Journal of Dry Zone Agriculture, 10(2):1-18. https://doi.org/10.4038/jdza.v10i2.90
View DOI
10
Nallakumar, G and Fernando, K.M.C (2023). Bioconversion performances of black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens L. Diptera: Stratiomyidae) on selected organic substrates. Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension. 26(3): 207-218. https://doi.org/10.4038/tare.v26i3.5664
View DOI
11
Prapaharan, D., Dias, W.K.N.S and Fernando, K.M.C (2023) Biotransformation of Soybean Residuals into Vermicompost by Red Earthworms (Eisenia fetida). Journal of Technology and Value Addition. 5(2):94-106.
12
Kaplani, K.L.M., Arunakumara, K.K.I.U., Fernando, K.M.C and Walpola, B.C (2022). Prospects of Cannabis and its cultivation in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Journal of Agriculture and Ecosystems, 4 (1):29-56. http://doi.org/10.4038/sljae.v4i1.67
View DOI
13
Fernando, K.M.C and Ekanayake, E.M.U.I (2022). Seed germination and early seedling growth of different vegetable species as affected by organic liquid preparations of dasagavya and beejamrita. Journal of Dry Zone Agriculture. 8(1): 56-67. https://doi.org/10.4038/jdza.v8i1.52
View DOI
14
Ekanayake, E.M.U.I and Fernando, K.M.C (2022). Influence of organic liquid fertilizers on growth and yield of Abelmoschus esculentus, Raphanus sativus and Amaranthus spp in container gardening. Sri Lankan Journal of Technology, 3 (2): 1-8.
15
Fernando, K.M.C and Ekanayake, E.M.U.I (2022). Plant growth, foliage senescence and rhizome yield of Turmeric (Curcuma domestica L.) as affected by inorganic and organic fertilizers. Journal of Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension. 26 (4): 344-353 http://doi.org/10.4038/tare.v25i4.5604
View DOI
16
Fernando, K.M.C., Ehoche, O.G., Atkinson, J.A and Sparkes, D.L (2021). Root System Architecture and Nitrogen Uptake Efficiency of Wheat Species. The Journal of Agricultural Sciences- Sri Lanka. 16(1): 37-53. http://doi.org/10.4038/jas.v16i1.9182
View DOI
17
Fernando, K.M.C., Wibowo, C and Sparkes, D.L (2021). Genotypic dependence of wheat species in nitrogen uptake determines by root morphology at maturity stage. Journal of Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension. 24(2): 91-105. https://doi.org/10.4038/tare.v24i2.5529
View DOI
18
Ekanayake, EMUI and Fernando, K.M.C (2021). Development of ex-situ conservation protocol of Ceylon gooseberry [Dovyalis hebecarpa (Gardner) Warb.]. International Journal of Minor Fruits, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. 7 (1): 62-71.
19
Mirihagalla, M.K.P.N. and Fernando, K.M.C. (2021). Medicinal Plants use for home remedies in Sri Lanka: A Review. International Journal of Minor Fruits, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. 7(2): 29-39.
20
Kumara, H.W.K.P, Fernando, K.M.C and Gunathilaka, W.M.N.D (2021) Accumulated thermal time affects growth, yield and phenological development of Sesame (Sesamum indicum) in the Dry Zone of Sri Lanka. Journal of Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension. 24(4):286-300. https://doi.org/10.4038/tare.v24i4.5511
View DOI
21
Harshani, H.K.A and Fernando, K.M.C (2021) Root system attributes, morphology and yield of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) under moisture stress. Journal of Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension. 24(3), 60-70. https://doi.org/10.4038/tare.v24i3.5512
View DOI
22
Fernando, K.M.C. and Arunakumara K.K.I.U. (2021). Sustainable organic waste management and plant nutrient replenishment in the soil by vermicompost: A review. AGRIEAST Journal of Agricultural Science. 15(2):32-51. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/agrieast.v15i2.105
View DOI
23
Wijeysingha, I.S. and Fernando, K.M.C (2021) Bioconversion of perennial weeds of Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M. King & H. Rob., Sida rhombifolia L., and Lantana camara L. by vermicomposting process. AGRIEAST Journal of Agricultural Science, 15(2): 52-68. https://doi.org/10.4038/agrieast.v15i2.106
View DOI
24
Munasinghe, S.Y and Fernando, K.M.C (2021) Factors affecting on propagation and production of clove bean [Ipomoea muricata (L.) Jacg.]; an underutilized vegetable crop in Sri Lanka. AGRIEAST Journal of Agricultural Science, 15(1):55-64. https://doi.org/10.4038/agrieast.v15i1.101
View DOI
25
Fernando, K.M.C and Sparkes, D.L (2020). Nitrogen uptake, utilisation and use efficiency of different wheat species. Sabaragamuwa University Journal. Vol 18(1): 55-65. http://doi.org/10.4038/suslj.v18i1.7754
View DOI
26
Fernando, K.M.C and Sparkes, D.L (2020). Contrasting Properties of Flag Leaf Greenness in Ancient Wheat species and Modern Bread Wheat. Rajarata University Journal. Vol 5(2):65-78.
27
Fernando, K.M.C and Sparkes, D.L (2020). Nitrogen Fertiliser on Plant Nitrogen Uptake and Partitioning in Different Wheat Species. Sri Lankan Journal of Technology. 1(1): 7-13.
28
Jayasingha, D.G.M.A and Fernando, K.M.C (2020). Identification of Seedling root morphological traits associated with economic yield and yield components of cowpea (Vigna anguiculata L.). AGRIEAST. Vol 14(2): 17-30. http://doi.org/10.4038/agrieast.v14i2.94
View DOI
29
Mirihagalla, M.K.P.N and Fernando, K.M.C (2020). Effect of Aloe vera gel for inducing rooting of stem cuttings and air layering of plants. Journal of Dry Zone Agriculture. Vol 6 (1): 13-26.
30
Ekanayake, E.M.U.I., Eranga, G.A.S and Fernando, K.M.C (2020). Effect of Organic and Inorganic Liquid Fertilisers on growth and yield of Centella asiatica (L.) and Capsicum annuum (L.) Var. annuum. Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension. 23(3 & 4):60-70. http://doi.org/10.4038/tare.v23i3-4.5498
View DOI
31
Xie, Q., Fernando, K.M.C., Mayes, S and Sparkes, D.L (2017). Identifying seedling root architectural traits associated with yield and yield components in wheat. Annals of Botany. 119 (7): 1115-1129. https://doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcx001
View DOI
32
Fernando, K.M.C., Lieblein, G., Francis, C., Subasinghe, S and Weerakoon, L (2009). Development of Sustainable Ecological Vegetable Production Systems in Matara district, Sri Lanka: an Intervention Approach. Journal of Tropical Agricultural Research. Vol 20: 279-289. https://dl.nsf.gov.lk/handle/1/12118
View DOI

Abstract Publications

Total: 49
01
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S., Fernando, K.M.C., Withanawasam, D.M and Wathugala, D.L., and (2026). Effect of Rice Husk Biochar and Urea on Nutritional Properties of Rice under Low Country Dry Zone Conditions in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of 13th Ruhuna International Science & Technology Conference, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, P23.
02
Liyanage, L.D.N.C., Piyaratne, M.K.D.K., Adikaram, K.K.L.B., Ratnesekara, D and K.M.C. Fernando (2026). Comparison of Polytunnel Structures on Agronomic and Economic Performances of Salad Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Under Warm Humid Tropical Environment. Proceedings of the Vice Chancellors Awards & Academic Sessions 2026, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, P17.
03
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Siriwardena, M.H.U., Wathugala, D.L., Fernando, K.M.C., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S and Withanawasam, D.M (2025). Influence of rice husk biochar and nitrogen fertilizer on soil properties and rice (Oryza sativa L.) yield in low country Dry Zone of Sri Lanka. Book of Abstracts of Green to Green, International Research Conference, Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy, P21.
04
Ekanayaka, R.I, Adhikaram, K.K.L.B and Fernando, K.M.C. (2025) Effect of fertilizer schedules and media composition on growth and yield of Capsicum chinense Jacq. under protected house conditions, Proceedings of the International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 117.
05
Gamage, K.R.R., Fernando, K.M.C. and Fernando, G.S.N (2025) Development of Sugar-coated and Savory Tropical Almond and Evaluation of Their Shelf-life and Quality parameters. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences (INSATRS) 2025, University of Colombo. P 23.
06
Dilshan, B.C., De Silva, H.C.C., Fernando, K.M.C. and Rajawatta, K.M.W (2025). Effect of Seaweed-based Foliar Spray on Growth and Yield Associated with Catalase and Ascorbate Peroxidase Activities of Capsicum annuum L. Proceedings of the Academic Sessions & Vice Chancellors Awards- 2025, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 17.
07
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Siriwardena, M.H.U., Withanawasam, D.M., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S., Fernando, K.M.C. and Wathugala, D.L (2025) Combined Application of Biochar and Nitrogen Fertilizer on Nitrogen Use Efficiencies and Grain Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Proceedings of the Academic Sessions & Vice Chancellors Awards- 2025, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 18.
08
Jayawardhana, W.R.S., Dias, W.K.N.S and Fernando, K.M.C. (2025). Effect of Different Fertilizer Schedules on Growth and Yield of Green Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) under Controlled Environmental Conditions. Proceedings of the Academic Sessions & Vice Chancellors Awards- 2025, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 20.
09
Muthukudaarachchi, M.A.M.A., Jayasinghe, T., Kumarasingha, H.K.M.S and Fernando, K.M.C. (2025) Elephant Dung as an Alternative Substrate for Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) Cultivation. Proceedings of the Academic Sessions & Vice Chancellors Awards- 2025, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 21.
10
Madushanka, W.C.M.S and Fernando, K.M.C. (2024) Effects of selected herbal and microbial extracts on severity of Chrysanthemum White Rust Disease. Proceedings of the 5th National Symposium on Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences, University of Colombo, Institute of Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences, Hambantota, Sri Lanka. P 28.
11
Madhumali, H.N.D., Jayawardhana, W.R.S., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S., Piyaratne, M.K.D.K and Fernando, K.M.C. (2024) Effect of different dimensions of grow bags and split application of Albert’s fertilizer on growth and yield of salad cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under protected environment. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 131.
12
Mahendrarasa, A., Ariyasoma, U.M.U.R., Piyaratne, M.K.D.K., Fernando, K.M.C. and Wathugala, D.L (2024) Impact of vine training techniques on growth and yield of salad cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in protected house conditions. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 121 .
13
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Siriwardana, M.H.U., Withanawasam., D M., Fernando, K.M.C. and Wathugala, D.L (2024) Impact of different levels of biochar and carbonyl diamide (urea) on physiochemical properties of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Proceedings of the International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 21.
14
Vithusha, S., Dias, W.K.N.S., Gunawardena, O.B., Adikaram, K.K.L.B., Wathugala, D.L and Fernando, K.M.C. (2024) Evaluating new fertilizer schedules for enhanced cultivation of salad cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under controlled environmental agriculture. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. P 31.
15
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Siriwardana, M.H.U., Hafeel. R.F., Withanawasam., D M., Fernando, K.M.C. and Wathugala, D.L (2023) Effect of Different Biochar and Carbonyl Diamide (Urea) Levels on Leaf Pigment Accumulation in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Proceedings of the 9th International Conference of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, 6-8 December 2023. P 65.
16
Kumara, K.H.C.H., Siriwardana, M.H.U., Hafeel. R.F., Withanawasam., D M., Fernando, K.M.C. and Wathugala, D.L (2023) Impact of different biochar and urea fertilizer ratios on soil microbial activity, growth and physiological performances of rice (Oryza sativa L.) Proceedings of the International Conference on Applied and Pure Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kelanaiya, Sri Lanka, P 39.
17
Fernando, K.M.C., Dias, W.K.N.S., Wijekoon, W.M.C.J and Subodinee, AAM (2023) Perception of Undergraduates of Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna Towards Online Examinations: Lesson Learnt During the Covid-19 Pandemic. Proceedings of the 3rd Ruhuna Quality Assurance Sessions.
18
Fernando, K.M.C. and H.I.G.K Anuruddi (2022). Mapping Spatial Variability of Irrigation Water Quality in Kamburupitiya Divisional Secretariat Area, Matara, Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 19th Academic sessions, University of Ruhuna.
19
Ekanayake, E.M.U.I and Fernando, K.M.C. (2022). Impact of Organic Liquid Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Abelmoschus esculentus, Raphanus sativus and Amaranthus spp in Container Gardening. Proceedings of the 19th Academic sessions, University of Ruhuna.
20
Fernando, K.M.C., Wibowo, C. and Sparkes, D. L. (2020). Exploration of Root Morphology and Plant Nitrogen Uptake of Different Wheat Species. Proceedings of 17th Academic Sessions, Page 06, University of Ruhuna. ISSN 2362-0412.
21
Anuruddi, H.I.G.K and Fernando, K.M.C. (2020). Factors influence in adapting of bottled water consumption in urban, semi-urban and rural areas of Matara DS division. Proceedings of SLIIT International Conference on Advancements in Science and Humanities.
22
Fernando, K.M.C. and Sparkes, D.L (2019). Exploring nitrogen uptake, utilisation and use efficiency of different wheat species, 5th International Conference on Dry Zone Agriculture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jaffna 2019 was held on 18-19 December 2019.
23
Fernando, K.M.C. and Sparkes, D.L (2019). Explore the relative distribution of plant nitrogen in ancient wheat species and modern bread wheat. Paper is presented and abstract was published in the proceedings of International Conference on Agriculture, Food Security and Safety, on 7-8 November 2019 at Galle Face Hotel, Colombo.
24
Fernando, K.M.C. and Anuruddi, H.I.G.K (2019). Potential of using Aloe vera gel for inducing rooting of stem cuttings: A concept paper. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Minor Fruits, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Institute of Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences, University of Colombo, 4-6 September 2019, P 24.
25
Anuruddi, H.I.G.K and Fernando, K.M.C. (2019). Medicinal Plant Diversity in Home Gardens in Sri Lanka: A mini review. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Minor Fruits, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Institute of Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences, University of Colombo, 4-6 September 2019, P 41.
26
Fernando, KMC and Sparkes, DL (2019). Study on stay-green properties of ancient wheat species and modern bread wheat. Proceedings of the International Symposium in Agriculture & Environment, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, 28th February 2019, P 34.
27
Fernando, KMC., Atkinson, J.A and Sparkes, D.L (2018). Phenotypic variations of seedling root architectural traits of wheat species under different growth media. Proceedings of the International Symposium in Agriculture & Environment, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, 18th January 2018, P23.
28
Fernando, K.M.C. and Sparkes, D.L (2014). Identification of flag leaf traits associated with nitrogen use efficiency in einkorn, emmer, spelt and bread wheat. Challenges for Crop Production & Quality: Annals of Applied Biology Centenary conference, 10th December 2014, The United Kingdom.
29
Fernando, K.M.C. (2014). Exploration of favourable traits for nitrogen use efficiency in ancient wheat species. Proceedings of the Postgraduate Symposium on 14-15 May 2014 at University of Nottingham. United Kingdom.
30
Fernando, K.M.C., Ehoche, OG., Atkinson, JA and Sparkes, DL (2014). Root architectural traits of einkorn, emmer, spelt and bread wheat in relation to nitrogen uptake efficiency. PhenoDays 2014 conference, 28-31 October 2014, France.
31
Fernando, K.M.C., Mayes, S and Sparkes, DL (2013). Nitrogen Use efficiency traits in ancient wheat species, Crop Resource Use Efficiency and Field Phenotyping conference, Association of applied Biologists, on 25-26 March 2013, The United Kingdom.
32
Rathnayaka, R.M.P.A., Kuruppu, M and Fernando, K.M.C. (2009) Induce Variations of Anthurium andreanum var. Angel through Chemical mutagens. A paper presented at 2nd National Symposium at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna.
33
Fernando, K.M.C., Lieblein, G, Francis, C., Subasinghe, S and Weerakoon, L (2008) Exploration of reasons to change farmer’s attitudes towards ecological vegetable farming in Southern Sri Lanka: evidence from a case study. Proceedings of the First National Symposium, University of Ruhuna, 23 - 24 October 2008, P 80.
34
Priyadarshani, N.D.N and Fernando K.M.C (2008). Effect of different seed treatments on germination of Ipomoea mauritiana (Kiribadu) seeds, Proceedings of the First National Symposium, University of Ruhuna, 23 -24 October 2008, P 27.
35
Kaliyadasa, P.E, Fernando, K.M.C. and Purnima, M.M.A (2008). Evaluation of different potting media for multiplication of in-vitro propagated dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus Haw.). Proceedings of the 2nd International Symposium, Sri Lanka University of Sabaragamuwa, 8 - 12 July 2008, P19.
36
Priyadarshani, N.D.N., Fernando, K.M.C., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S and Subasinghe, S (2008). Studies on growth and yield of leafy cabbage (Brassica oleraceae var. acephala) as affected by organic liquid fertilizers, Proceedings of the 2nd International Symposium, Sri Lanka University of Sabaragamuwa, 8– 12 July 2008, P25.
37
Fernando, K.M.C., Priyadarshani, N.D.N and Subasinghe, S (2008). Seedling development of Spinach (Basella alba) as affected by different sources of vermicompost. Proceedings of the 2nd International Symposium, Sri Lanka University of Sabaragamuwa, 8 - 12 July 2008, P 26.
38
Priyadarshani, N.D.N., Kumarasinghe, H.K.M.S., Subasinghe, S and Fernando, K.M.C. (2008). Kollankola (Poogostomon heyneanus) rooting as affected by cutting length and moisture level, Proceedings of the 2nd International Symposium, Sri Lanka University of Sabaragamuwa, 8– 12 July 2008, P27.
39
Fernando, K.M.C. and Priyadarshani, N.D.N (2008). Seed treatments affected on germination of Canna lily (Canna indica) under in-vitro and in-vivo conditions. Proceedings of the 2nd International Symposium, Sri Lanka University of Sabaragamuwa, 8 - 12 July 2008, P28.
40
Fernando, K.M.C., Priyadarshani, N.D.N and Warakagoda, P.S (2008). Ex-situ conservation of bird’s nest anthurium (Anthurium hookeri). Proceedings of the 64th Annual sessions of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science, P65.
41
Fernando, K.M.C. and Priyadarshani, N.D.N (2007). Bud initiation of different clones of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum Presl.) as affected by different BAP concentrations. Proceedings of the 12th Forestry and Environmental Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Sri Lanka, P76.
42
Fernando, K.M.C. and Subasinghe, S (2007). Studies of economically feasible basal medium for in- vitro propagation of Orchid as an alternative for Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. Proceedings of the 12th Forestry and Environmental Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Sri Lanka, P77.
43
Fernando, K.M.C. and Priyadarshani, N.D.N (2007). Different concentrations of BAP on in-vitro root development of Vanilla (Vanilla fragrance). Proceedings of the 12th Forestry and Environmental Symposium- 2007, University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Sri Lanka, P82.
44
Fernando, K.M.C. and Priyadarshani, N.D.N (2007). Seed germination and seedling development of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) as affected by earthworm castings. Proceedings of the 12th Forestry and Environmental Symposium- 2007, University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Sri Lanka, P87.
45
Kaliyadasa, P.E, Fernando, K.M.C., Purnima, M.M.A and Subasinghe,S (2007). Early seedling growth of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) as affected by different types of compost tea. Proceedings of the 63rd the Annual sessions of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science, P45.
46
Fernando, K.M.C. and Subasinghe, S (2007). Development of Cost- effective basal medium for in- vitro propagation of Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum) as an alternative for Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. 4th Academic sessions, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka.
47
Fernando, K.M.C. and Subasinghe, S (2005). Studies on in-vitro establishment of Red Sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus) as affected by seed size, maturity stage storage period and sterilization procedure. Proceedings of the 61st Annual sessions of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science, P107.
48
Fernando, K.M.C., Swarnathilaka, D.B.R and Subasinghe, S (2004). In- vitro propagation of Black pepper (Piper nigrum), A paper presented at the 9th Annual Forestry and Environmental Symposium, 27- 28 February 2004, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Abstract published in the proceedings, P56.
49
Fernando, K.M.C. and Subasinghe, S (2004). In- vitro clonal micropropagation of Agave (Agave sisilana), Proceedings of the 60th Annual sessions of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science. Abstract published in the proceedings, P85.

Books / Book Chapters

Total: 6
01
කෘෂි පරිසර විද්‍යා ප්‍රවේශය/‍Introduction to Agroecology (Sinhala) (2021). ISBN: 978-624-00-1124-2, Published by Godage and Brothers, Colombo 10
02
වෙල්ලස්සේ හෙළ ගොවිතැන සහ ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ දේශීය ඥානය /Traditional Farming in Ancient Wellassa and Indigenous Knowledge System of Sri Lanka (Sinhala) (2021). ISBN: 978-624-5600-10-6, Published by Malpiyali Publishers, Dankotuwa
03
තිරසර කෘෂිකර්මාන්තය සහ එහි මූලධර්ම/ Sustainable Agriculture and Its principles (Sinhala). Published by Malpiyali Publishers (2021). ISBN: 978-624-5600-27-4 Published by Malpiyali Publishers, Dankotuwa
04
Sustainable Management of Agriculture (Edited) a resource book published by the NIE, Maharagama (2022).
05
Biology Resource book (Edited) for Science for Technology subject published by NIE, Maharagama (2020)
06
Teachers’ guidebook for Agro-Technology (Edited), published by the NIE, Maharagama (2010)

Newspaper & Magazine Articles

Total: 19
01
කංසා‍‍ ආශ්‍රිත නිෂ්පාදන‍ සඳහා‌ ඇති‌ ගෝලීය ප්‍රවණතා සහ දේශීය විභවය (Global trends and local potential for Cannabis-based products). An article published in Mawbima newspaper on 30th October 2025.
02
වී‌‌‌ වගාවේ වියදම‌ අඩුකරගෙන‌ ලාභය වැඩි කරගන්නා නව ක්‍රමයක් (Integrated Plant Nutrient Management for Paddy Cultivation). An article published in Mawbima newspaper on 23rd October 2025.
03
කෘෂිසංචාරක ව්‍යාපාරය සඳහා ශ්‍රී ලංකාව තුළ පවතින විභවය (The potential for agritourism in Sri Lanka). An article published in GoviJanatha Magazine published by Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute, Volume 27 (02): April- June 2025.
04
දේශීය භෝග ප්‍රභේදයන්ට විණ කටින ආනයනික දෙමුහුම් ප්‍රභේද (The negative impacts of imported hybrid varieties over local varieties). An article published in GoviJanatha Magazine published by Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute, Volume 27 (01): January- March 2025
05
කොට්ටම්බා මද වලට ලෝක වෙළෙඳපොළේ ලොකු ඉල්ලුමක් (High demand for local Almond kernels in global market). An article published in Mawbima newspaper on 30th January 2025.
06
ආලංගා (Clove bean: an underutilized vegetable crop)- an article published in Mawbima newspaper on 19th December 2024.
07
වන සතුන්ගේ ගහන පාලනයට විද්‍යාත්මක ප්‍රවේශයක් (Scientific approach for controlling over population of wild animals in Sri Lanka)- an article published in Mawbima newspaper on 12th December 2024.
08
ගැඩවිල් කොම්පෝස්ට් හදන හැටි (Preparation of vermicompost)- an article published in Mawbima newspaper on 28th November 2024.
09
කාබනික අපද්‍රව්‍ය කළමනාකරණය සඳහා කළු සොල්දාදු මැස්සාගේ කීටයන්ගේ කාර්යභාරය (Role of black soldier fly larvae on organic waste management) an article published in GoviJanatha Magazine published by Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute, Volume 26 (3): July- September 2024.
10
කොට්ටම්බා ශාකය (Kottamba/Local Almond)- an article published in GoviJanatha Magazine published by Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute, Volume 25 (3-4): July- December 2023.
11
පසට නව ජීවයක් ලබාදෙන ජීවඅඟුරු (Biochar application) an article published in GoviJanatha Magazine published by Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute, Volume 23 (1): January- March 2021.
12
නාගරික කෘෂිකර්මාන්තය සඳහා යොමුවීමේ කාලීන අවශ්‍යතාවය (The importance of urban gardening in the present context). an article published in GoviJanatha Magazine published by Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute, Volume 24 (1 & 2): January- January- June 2022.
13
පුණර්ජනනීය බලශක්ති සංක්‍රාන්තිය (Renewable energy transition) an article published in Diyawara Magazine, Volume 2: 2019 published by Southern Provincial Irrigation Department.
14
සිරස් ගොවිතැන ලොව ආහාර නිෂ්පාදනයේ අනාගත බලාපොරොත්තුවද (Is vertical farming a future hope of global food production? an article published in Diyawara Magazine, Volume 2: 2019 published by Southern Provincial Irrigation Department.
15
භූගෝලීය තොරතුරු පද්ධතිය භාවිතයෙන් වාරී ජලයේ ගුණාත්මකභාවය සිතියම්ගත කිරීම (Use of Geographical Information Systems to mapping of irrigation water quality) an article published in Diyawara Magazine, Volume 1: 2021 published by Southern Provincial Irrigation Department.
16
පාරිභෝජනය සඳහා භුමි අලංකරණයට ශ්‍රී ලංකාව තුළ ඇති විභවය (Potential to expand edible landscaping in Sri Lanka) an article published in Diyawara Magazine, Volume 2: 2020 published by Southern Provincial Irrigation Department.
17
වගාවට අවැසි නයිට්‍රජන් සපුරණ කොම්පෝස්ට් (Compost: a source of N for crop growth) an article published in Diyawara Magazine, Volume 1: 2020 published by Southern Provincial Irrigation Department.
18
තිරසාර කෘෂිකර්මාන්තය සඳහා භූගෝලීය තොරතුරු පද්ධතිය සහ දුරස්ථ සන්වේදන තාක්ෂණය (Applications of Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing on Sustainable Agriculture) an article published in Diyawara Magazine, Volume 1: 2019 published by Southern Provincial Irrigation Department.
19
බහුභෝග වගාවන් සඳහා උචිත භෝග තෝරාගනිමු (Select suitable crop species for multiple Cropping Systems) an article published in GoviJanatha Magazine published by Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute, Volume 21 (1): January- March 2019.

Responsibilities

Total: 33
  • 01
    Chairperson- The Academic Sessions and Vice- Chancellor’s Awards- 2025, University of Ruhuna
  • 02
    Chairperson- 3rd Ruhuna Quality Assurance Session 2023, University of Ruhuna
  • 03
    Chairperson- IQAC of the Faculty of Agriculture (2022 -2025)
  • 04
    Chairperson- Landscape Committee- Faculty of Agriculture (2022 onwards)
  • 05
    Chairperson of the registration committee of the ISAE 2026, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna
  • 06
    Chairperson of the Inauguration and registration committee of the ISAE 2024, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna
  • 07
    Chairperson of the Inauguration and registration committee of the ISAE 2023, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna
  • 08
    Chairperson of the IT & Technical committee- Quality Assurance Session 2022
  • 09
    Chairperson of the Decoration Committer, General Convocation of the University of Ruhuna (2025, 2026)
  • 10
    Member of the research Ethics committee- Faculty of Agriculture (2022 onwards)
  • 11
    Member of the Library committee- Faculty of Agriculture (2020 onwards)
  • 12
    President, Staff Welfare Association, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2019 & 2020)
  • 13
    Secretary of the Oil Palm Industry Session, ISAE 2019 organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna
  • 14
    Student counsellor, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2008, 2009, 2010) and (2018 & 2019)
  • 15
    Academic counsellor to the Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2016 -2018)
  • 16
    Mentor of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2018 onwards)
  • 17
    Member of the Physical Resource Development Committee of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2019)
  • 18
    Member of the organizing committee of 5th International Symposium on Minor Fruits Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (ISMFM & AP) was held on 4-6 September 2019 organized by the Institute of Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences, University of Colombo and International Society of Minor Fruits Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
  • 19
    Member of the Souvenir and Printing Committee of the Senate Committee for Sri Lankan University Games 2019 (SLUG XIII)
  • 20
    Faculty coordinator of the Inter-Faculty Dancing and Literary Competition 2019
  • 21
    Member of the Criteria-Wise Arrangement Team- for Program design and development of program review-2019 for BSc Agricultural Resource Management (Honours) degree program
  • 22
    Member of the Self Evaluation Report Writing Team of program review-2019 for BSc Agricultural Resource Management (Honours) degree program
  • 23
    Member of the Faculty Board Sub Committee for Implementing a Mentoring Program at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2018)
  • 24
    Member of the Academic committee, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2018 to 2021)
  • 25
    Member of the Editorial Board and Publication Committee, ISAE 2029 organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna
  • 26
    Member of the Editorial Board and Publication Committee, ISAE 2018 organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna
  • 27
    Member of the Organizing committee of the “Art Weeek” held to celebrate 40th Anniversary of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, 2018
  • 28
    Member of the Decoration Committee of the Inter-Faculty Dancing and Literary Competition was held at Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhunain September 2017
  • 29
    Compère of the 13th Academic Sessions and 12th Vice Chancellors Awards Ceremony, University of Ruhuna -2016
  • 30
    The Treasurer, Staff Welfare Association, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna- 2011
  • 31
    Member of the Cultural Committee, ISAE 2010 organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna
  • 32
    Member of the Technical Sessions and Decoration Committee, National Symposium on Agriculture & Environment organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna - 2009
  • 33
    Compère of the 30th Anniversary Celebration Symposium organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna - 2008