September 2024, Colombo: Nations Trust Bank and the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) together hosted the Nations Trust WNPS Monthly Lecture for the month of September on the topic of blind snakes, creating awareness on their biology, diversity and ecological importance.
The lecture was led by herpetologist, taxonomist, and naturalist, L. J. Mendis Wickramasinghe, and herpetologist, Nethu Wickramasinghe, examining the cryptic creatures from both a taxonomic and genetic perspective.
Drawing on 30 years of fieldwork and herpetological research, Mendis’ contribution explored the identification and classification of blind snakes, while Nethu discussed her research experience in molecular phylogenetics and the species’ evolutionary history. Additionally, she explored the significance of molecular techniques in understanding blind snakes and highlighted the urgent need for their conservation in the face of habitat loss and other threats. Participants were also guided through the latest research techniques and their application in contributing to conservation efforts.
As a key area of Nations Trust Bank’s CSR strategy, the Nations Trust WNPS Monthly Lectures are aimed to identify and fill the gaps in knowledge and awareness surrounding biodiversity conservation. The lectures are designed to address these gaps by elevating public understanding on the need for conversation and a better understanding of environmental issues within local communities. The lectures reaffirm the Bank’s commitment to educating current and future generations on biodiversity and environmental conservation.
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