All About That Reef

Welcome to our twelfth episode! This time, we take a closer look at sharks and rays, and the complex realities of conserving them in a region where fisheries, livelihoods, and global policy are deeply connected.We sit down with Daniel Fernando, Co-Founder and Director at Blue Resources Trust, where he leads the Fisheries and Policy Programme. Daniel shares his experience working across long-term fisheries research and international policy, offering a grounded perspective on what it takes to manage elasmobranch species in the Indian Ocean.In this conversation, we unpack what current research reveals about shark and ray populations in Sri Lanka, why these species are particularly vulnerable, and how conservation plays out in data-limited, high-pressure fisheries. We also explore the importance of strengthening local scientific capacity, and the challenge of aligning global conservation priorities with national realities.We close by looking ahead to Sharks International 2026, which Sri Lanka is set to host, and what this moment could mean for shaping conversations, collaboration, and leadership on shark and ray conservation in the region.

Welcome to our eleventh episode! This time, we explore the intersection of photography and nature tourism, and what it means to tell meaningful stories about the ocean.We speak with Kaushiik Subramaniam, a wildlife conservation biologist and award-winning photographer whose work brings science to life through storytelling. Having worked with conservation organisations and global media platforms, including the BBC, Kaush shares his journey across the Indian Ocean and beyond, and reflects on how photography can move beyond aesthetics to create connection and impact.We also unpack what makes nature tourism truly responsible, exploring common pitfalls, the role of local communities, and what the future of reef tourism could look like.

In our tenth episode, we dive into a topic that blends economics, environmental policy, and global conservation efforts—conservation finance.We speak with Ashani Basnayake, a policy researcher, to unpack what conservation finance is and how tools like debt-for-nature swaps can support large-scale environmental protection. Ashani explains how these mechanisms work, highlights successful case studies—particularly in marine contexts—and discusses their growing relevance in today’s economic and ecological landscape.This episode offers a clear look at how financing mechanisms can shape conservation outcomes, and why young professionals and practitioners should be paying close attention to this evolving space.

Welcome to our ninth episode! This time, we explore the field of maritime archaeology and the work involved in uncovering Sri Lanka’s submerged cultural heritage.We speak with Rasika Muthucumarana, Senior Archaeology Officer at the Maritime Archaeology Unit of the Central Cultural Fund, about his journey into underwater archaeology and what it means to work at the intersection of history and the ocean. From his long-term work on the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known wreck in Sri Lanka and the Asia-Pacific region, to curating the Maritime Archaeology Museum in Galle, Rasika shares insights into some of the country’s most significant underwater discoveries.We also talk about new projects on the horizon, the practicalities of excavation, and what advice he has for those curious about entering the field.

Welcome to our eighth episode! This time, we explore the work behind protecting Sri Lanka’s marine ecosystems, both through research and management on the ground.We sit down with Nishan Perera, marine biologist and co-founder of Blue Resources Trust, to discuss the realities of marine protected area (MPA) management and the role long-term research plays in supporting conservation efforts. Nishan shares insights from a decade of reef monitoring in Kayankerni, reflecting on how continuous fieldwork shapes our understanding of ecosystem changes, conservation planning, and the practical side of marine protection.Through this conversation, we get a closer look at what marine conservation looks like beyond policy—rooted in day-to-day realities, persistence, and adapting to challenges as they arise.

Welcome to our seventh episode! This time, we're shining a light on abandoned, lost, and discarded fishing gear (ALDFG)—often referred to as "ghost gear"—and its impact on marine ecosystems.We sit down with Hafsa Jamel, Programme Manager at the Lanka Environment Fund (LEF), who has been instrumental in the Mannar Region Systemic Solutions (MARESSOL) project. Hafsa shares insights into the challenges posed by ALDFG in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Strait, the collaborative efforts underway to tackle this issue, and the importance of working with local communities and stakeholders to co-create sustainable, long-term solutions.As a member of the Parrotfish Collective (PFC), Hafsa also breaks down the process of building content that’s not only visually engaging but rooted in science and local context. She shares how storytelling can make conservation more accessible and relevant to wider audiences.

Welcome to our sixth episode! This time, we’re heading to the shore—to examine how well Sri Lanka’s coastlines are being protected.Coastal ecosystems are vital for biodiversity, livelihoods, and climate resilience, yet they face increasing threats from illegal development, erosion, and weak enforcement of conservation policies. In this episode, we sit down with Prof. Terney Pradeep Kumara, the Director General of the Department of Coastal Conservation and Coastal Resource Management, to explore the effectiveness of existing policies, the ongoing enforcement challenges, and the delicate balance between conservation and development.As both an academic and policymaker, Prof. Terney offers valuable insight into bridging the gap between research and real-world conservation efforts, shedding light on what needs to change for Sri Lanka to better protect its coastlines.Thank you for tuning in—let’s continue to explore, question, and push for stronger coastal conservation together!

Welcome to our fifth episode! This time, we’re diving into the world of freediving—one of the incredible ways to experience the ocean in its purest form.Before our guest, Kalim Iqbal, joins us, we discuss the fundamentals of snorkeling etiquette—how to be a respectful visitor in the water, interact responsibly with marine life, and minimize our impact on fragile ecosystems.Then, we sit down with Kalim Iqbal, one of Sri Lanka’s freediving instructors, to talk about his journey into the sport, the physical and mental aspects of freediving, and what makes this practice so unique. We explore the history of freediving, and how it has evolved from an ancient survival skill to a sport and a way of life. Kalim also shares his experience diving in the legendary Blue Hole, the challenges of breath-hold diving, and the deep connection freediving creates with the ocean. Finally, we touch on the ethical dilemmas of spearfishing, discussing different perspectives on sustainability and conservation.

Welcome to our fourth episode! This time, we’re exploring the intersection of underwater photography and marine conservation.Photography is more than just a way to capture beauty—it’s a powerful tool for storytelling, raising awareness, and driving conservation action. For many, stunning underwater images are their only window into the ocean, making photographers key players in showcasing the wonders of marine life and the threats these ecosystems face.Renowned underwater photographer Manjula Wijeyeratne joins us to share his journey—from his first dive to capturing Sri Lanka’s stunning shipwrecks and marine life. He also discusses the challenges of photographing beneath the waves and how imagery can inspire real action.

Welcome to our third episode! This time, we’re immersing ourselves in the world of mangroves and wetlands.In this episode, we explore the vital role these ecosystems play in climate adaptation and mitigation. We’ll dive into their importance as carbon sinks, their role in carbon finance and their ability to protect our coastlines.Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody, Sri Lanka’s leading expert on mangroves, discusses the pressing issue of shrimp farming to the importance of wetland protection, uncovering the complexities of these crucial ecosystems.

Welcome to our second episode! This time, we’re diving deep—literally—into the world of shipwrecks.In this episode, we sit down with Dharshana Jayawardena, an expert in technical diving and underwater exploration, to uncover the secrets of Sri Lanka’s wrecks. We talk about how these sunken ships have become thriving marine ecosystems, the threats they face, and the importance of protecting them.From the mysteries of deep-sea diving to the issue of salvaging, we explore the hidden stories beneath the waves. Join us as we take a closer look at the intersection of history, biodiversity, and marine conservation.

Welcome to our very first episode! This is where it all begins—an introduction to us, Aindri and Mehak, and the experiences that led us to the marine world. In this episode, we share our journey, the moments that ignited our passion for marine life, and why protecting it matters so much to us. It’s a glimpse into what drives us and sets the stage for the conversations we’ll be having in the episodes to come.

Welcome to All About That Reef, a podcast celebrating the beauty and importance of our oceans, hosted by Aindri Morahela and Mehak Sangani. We’re here to share the untold stories of marine life, the efforts to protect it, and the people leading change. From conservation projects to fascinating underwater ecosystems, we’ll explore how everyone can play a part in preserving our oceans for future generations. Join us as we uncover inspiring insights, showcase impactful work, and bring marine conservation closer to home—one episode at a time. Hit follow and join the journey! 🌊