Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka

  1. Profile

SUSL Staff Directory

Mr. Harshana Galahitigama

Position: Lecturer

harshana@agri.sab.ac.lk

Qualifications

PhD (Reading) Graduate Studies of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Japan

MSc (Crop Production Technology), Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka

BSc (Agriculture) Hons, Specialized in Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka 

Advanced Diploma in Business Management, National Institute of Business Management (NIBM), Sri Lanka

Diploma in Counseling, Sri Lanka Foundation Institute (SLF), Sri Lanka

Membership of Professional Bodies/Associations

Life time member of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS)

Member of the National Scientific Foundation (NSF)

Member of the Young Scientific Forum (YSF)

Member of Young Professionals for Agriculture Development (YPARD)

Research Interests

  • Controlled Environmental Agriculture
  • Plant Physiology
  • Sustainable Agriculture
  • Adaptation of Plants to Climate Change

Recent Publications

PEER REVIEWED

1. Galahitigama H., Sawada Y., Kenji Kamura, Tsuneyoshi Yamato, Takeshi Fujino, Hironori Takasaki (2024). Cellular and Morphological Effects of Ultrafine Bubbles on Rice Root Development During Seedling Growth. J Plant Growth Regul. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00344-024-11606-2

2. Ganeshamoorthy Hariharan, Nishanthi Vathshalyan, Harshana Galahitigama, Udeshika Wimalasiri, Ganege Don Kapila Kumara (2024) Potential of Foliar Application of Seaweed Extracts as a Biostimulant for Abiotic Stress Alleviation on Crop Production. Reviews in Agricultural Science, 12: 295–312. https://doi.org/10.7831/ras.12.0_295

3. Galahitigama H., Senavirathna MDHJ., FujinoT. et al (2024) Micro and Nano Plastics Effect on Growth and Development of Rice (Oryza sativa L.): A Review. Int J Environ Res 18, 32. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41742-024-00588-4

4. Indurugalla Y., Manimekala D., Galahitigama GAH (2023). Biostimulatory Impacts of Seed Priming through Botanical Extracts on Crop Production: A Critical Review. Asian Journal of Agricultural and Horticultural Research, 10(4), 559–579. doi.org/10.9734/ajahr/2023/v10i4294

5. Galahitigama GAH., Tharindi PWM., Kaushalya KC (2021) Different Halo-primed Seed Treatments on Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). IAR J Agri Res Life Sci, 2(1), 25-28

6. Perera RNN., Magamage MPS., Kumara, JBDAP., Galahitigama GAH., Dissanayake PK., Wekumbura WGC., Chandana Siriwardhana, Yapa PI (2019) Review of Fall Army Worm (FAW) Epidemic in Sri Lanka; Rathnapura District perspectives- A Short communication, International Journal of Entomology Research (IJER), 7(1), 9-18

7. Galahitigama GAH., Wathugala DL (2016) Pre-sowing Seed Treatments Improves the Growth and Drought Tolerance of Rice (Oryza sativa L.), Imperial Journal of Interdisciplinary Research (IJIR),2(9), 1074-1078

8. Galahitigama GAH., Wathugala DL(2016) Effects of Pre-sowing Seed Treatments on Seed Germination and Salinity Tolerance of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Seedlings, International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research (IJAAR), 9(6), 112-117

9. Galahitigama GAH (2016) Selection of Suitable Particle Size and Particle Ratio for Japanese Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), International Journal of Scientific and Technology Research (IJSTR), 5(12), 78-82

           

BOOK CHAPTERS 

1. Galahitigama GAH., Isuri Thakshila., Salinda Sandamal., Tharindi PWM., Suthajini T., Abeysinghe NPM., Asanka Tennakoon., Ayman El Sabagh., Disna Ratnasekera (2024) Nano-films for enhancing the shelf-life of harvested products. In: Swarnendu Roy and Akbar Hossain (eds) The nanotechnology-driven agriculture: the future ahead, CRC Press. Chapter 13, pp 225-244

2. Galahitigama GAH., Abeysinghe NPM (2023) Bioavailability of trace elements in soils. In: Meththika Vithanage, Majeti Narasimha Vara Prasad (eds) Medical geology: An en route for one health. Bioavailability of trace elements in soils. Publisher; Wiley.Chapter 28.pp 421-434 doi.org/10.1002/9781119867333.ch28

3. Asanka Tennakoon Galahitigama GAH., Tharindi PWM., Suthajini T., Abeysinghe NPM., Salinda Sandamal., Karthika Rajendran., Ayman El Sabagh., Disna Ratnasekera (2023) Climate resilient agriculture accumulation and toxicity of arsenic in rice and its practical mitigation. In: Climate resilient agriculture, Chapter 21, Publisher; Springer.pp 463-498

4. Jayaprada NVT., Wewalwela JJ., Galahitigama GAH., Pandipperuma PANP (2023) Microbial Interactions with Aquatic Plants. In: Soni, R., Suyal, D.C., Morales-Oyervides, L., Sungh Chauhan, J. (eds) Current Status of Fresh Water Microbiology. Springer, Singapore. Chapter 6, pp 135–160

ABSTRACTS 

  1. Ganearachchi GAVS., Galahitigama GAH., Kumarasinghe HKMS., Padmaperuma OA (2024) Potential of Re-using Coco Pellets as a Substrate to Produce Selected Nursery Crops (A Case Study). 5th International Conference of Agricultural Sciences Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. Pp 17

  2. Sugathadasa SGAR., Jayarathne DGDDS., Weerasekara WMPH., Dheerasinghe DAKC., Muthumal TGM., Harshana Galahitigama., W.H.P. Sandamali (2024) Assessment of Allelopathic Effects of Conyza bonariensis L., Extract on the Germination Performance of Tomato and Chili Seeds. 5th International Conference of Agricultural Sciences Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. Pp 20

  3. Harshana GALAHITIGAMA, Hironori TAKASAKI, Takeshi FUJINO, Yosuke SAWADA, Kenji KAMURA (2024) Effects of Ultrafine Bubbles (UFBs) on Root Performance of Rice (Oryza sativa) at the Seedling Stage. Water and Environment Technology Conference, Tsushima Campus, Okayama University, Japan. Pp 65
  4. Madhushani, NAT, Galahitigama GAH, Withanachchi, MM, Kumara GDK (2024) Impact of harvesting time and ascorbic acid treatment on lenticel browning of mango (Mangifera indica L.) variety ‘TomEJC’ International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment (ISAE), Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. Pp 111
  5. Epitakumbura, PD, Chandrasiri, RS., Amarasinghe, AAY., Dharmasena, HAYB., Galahitigama, GAH (2024) Selection of a suitable fertilizer mixture for high-density cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) cultivation in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka 6th National Symposium on Agriculture, Eastern University of Sri Lanka. pp 43
  6. Dissanayake, DDMO., Padmaperuma, OAD., Pinsara, WPS., Galahitigama, GAH., Karunaratne, PMAS (2023) The Estimation of Spatial Variation and Statistical Relationships between Carbon Stocks and Erosion Potential: Case at a Model Plantation Estate. 9th International Conference of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka. Pp 68
  7. Indurugalla, IAYR., Manimekala, DGHDS., Galahitigama, GAH., Dissanayake DDMO (2023) Effect of Biofertilizer on Growth and Yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in Greenhouse Condition. Undergraduate Research Symposium, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  8. I.A.Y.R. Indurugalla, D.G.H.D.S. Manimekala, G.A.H. Galahitigama, D.D.M.O. Dissanayake (2023) Effect of Biofertilizer on Growth and Yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in Greenhouse Condition. Undergraduate Research Symposium, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  9. W.M.W.S. Marapana, KMS Kodikara, G.A.H.Galahitigama (2023) Field Validation by a Rapid Method to Determine Lime Requirement for Potato and Vegetable Cultivating Soils in Welimada (ADA) Segment (2023) Undergraduate Research Symposium, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  10. J.C.D.Dinesh, M.Bulathkandage, G.A.H.Galahitigama (2023) Encourage Synchronize Flower Bud Initiation of Soursop (Annona muricata L.) by Using Synthetic Plant Growth Regulators. Undergraduate Research Symposium, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  11. K.P.S.Sewwandi, S.N.Weerasuriya, G.A.H.Galahitigama (2023) Impact of Above Ground Morphology of Cinnamon Plant on Yield and Processing: Traits Desirable for Variety Improvement (2023) Undergraduate Research Symposium, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  12. M.H.I.Wasana, D.A.Shirani, G.A.H.Galahitigama (2022) Effect of Foliar Application of Aqueous Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) Leaf Extract on Growth and Yield of Cowpea, Mung bean, and Okra. Undergraduate Research Symposium, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  13. P.S.Y.Dahanayaka, I.C.S.Edirimanna, G.A.H.Galahitigama (2022) Selecting an Appropriate Seed Coating to Enhance the Initial Growth of Finger millet (Elusine corocana L.) Undergraduate Research Symposium, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  14. S.T.Hansika, G.A.H.Galahitigama, D.A.M.De Silva (2022) Building Resilient in Cut Flower Value Chains Through Managing Postharvest Losses. Fourth International Conference of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  15. R.D.Erandathi, G.A.H.Galahitigama, J.B.D.A.P.Kumara, V.J.Yatawatte (2021) Effect of Storage Period from Harvesting to Subsequent Sowing on Sprouting Ability of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Seed Rhizomes in Off-season with Different Storing Materials, Eleventh Annual Research Session of the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  16. W.M.S.K.Wannisekara, G.A.H.Galahitigama, A.A.Y.Amarasinghe, S.T.Baddegama (2019) Evaluation of Physio-chemical Composition of Different Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Varieties Available in the Market. Proceedings of the Undergraduate Research, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  17. B.B.L.Bodhipaksha, V.J.Yatawatte, G.A.H.Galahitigama, J.B.D.A.P.Kumara (2019) Effect of Storing Time and Storing Method on Sprouting Ability of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.). Proceedings of the Undergraduate Research, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  18. R. M. K. D.Rathnayake, K. P. Somachandra , G. A. H. Galahitigama, G.D.K. Kumara (2019) Effect of different foliar fertilizers on growth, yield and quality of cut flower rose variety "White Success", National Symposium on Floriculture Research (NaSFloR), Sri Lanka
  19. J.S. Jayanatha, U.S.P.K. Liyanage, G.A.H. Galahitigama ,V. Pahalawattaarachchi (2019) Specific Growth of Kappaphycus alvarezii (Doty) in the Southern Coastal Waters of Sri Lanka, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency International Scientific Session, Sri Lanka
  20. C.Medagedara, G.A.H.Galahitigama, S.Corea, M.Faheem (2018) Performances of newly developed culture basket types for suspended rack culture of edible Perna perna (Brown mussels) in the Puttalam Estuary Sri Lanka, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency International Scientific Session, Sri Lanka
  21. D.T.S.A.P.Dissanayake, S.T.Jayamanne, G.A.H.Galahitigama, V.Pahalawattaarachchi (2017) Optimization of Conditions for Inducing Release of Swarmers in Ulva lactuca, Second International Research Symposium in SLCARP (Sri Lanka Council for Agriculture Research Policy) Colombo, Sri Lanka
  22. G.A.H Galahitigama, H.K.M.S Kumarasinghe, D.L Wathugala (2017) Alleviation of NaCl Induced Salinity in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Seedlings by Seed Osmopriming, International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment (ISAE), Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
  23. G.A.H.Galahitigama, M.D.Sanjeewa (2016) Study on Effect of Particle Size of Coco peat for Growth and Development of Greenhouse Vegetable Nursery Plants, First International Conference of Trincomalee campus, Eastern University, Sri Lanka
  24. N.T.G Gamage, G.A.H Galahitigama, D.L.C Fonseka, H.D Weerathunga (2016) Comparative Study of Physico-Chemical Parameters of Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum ) Bark Oils from Selected Cinnamon Cultivation Districts, First International Conference of Trincomalee campus, Eastern University, Sri Lanka
  25. M.D. Sangeewa, N.T.G Gamage, G.A.H Galahitigama, N.Ruwanpathirana (2016) Determination of the Relationship between Shrinkage, Density and Absorption of Selected Wood Species, First International Conference of Trincomalee campus, Eastern University, Sri Lanka
  26. W.A.C. Lakmali, G.A.H. Galahitigama, M.M.Nugaliadda (2016) Selection of Favorable Exogenous Factors on Ex-vitro rooting of Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila paniculata L.) Variety New Hope and Million Star, Wayamba International Conference at Wayamba University, Kuliyapitiya, Sri Lanka
  27. G.A.H Galahitigama, H.K.M.S Kumarasinghe, D.L Wathugala (2016) Phytotoxic Effect of Gini sapu (Michelia champaca L.) seeds to control of Barnyard grass (Echinochloa crusgalli L.) seedlings in paddy cultivation, National Conference on Green Practices, Kelaniya University, Sri Lanka
  28. J.H.M.A.K Jayapadma, H.K.M.S.Kumarasinghe, G.A.H.Galahitigama (2016) Effect of Nano fertilizer supplementation on yield of Japanese Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), Fourth International symposium in Eastern University, Batticaloa, Sri Lanka
  29. G.A.H.Galahitigama (2016) Identification of Judicious Technique to Increase Yield of Field Planted Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.), Third International Symposium in Rajarata University, Mihintale, Sri Lanka
  30. D.S.K.Rathnaweera, M.K.T.K Amarasinghe, G.A.H.Galahitigama, H.M.G.N.S.C Bandara (2016) Evaluation of Varietal Variation in Initial Growth and Development of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum.L) Under Irrigation, Annual symposium of Uwa wellassa University, Badulla, Sri Lanka
  31. G.A.H.Galahitigama, D.L.Wathugala (2016) Seed Priming improves growth of Rice (Oryza sativa L.), University Academic session of Ruhuna, University of Ruhuna, Wellamadama, Matara, Sri Lanka
  32. G.A.H.Galahitigama, D.L.Wathugala (2016) Pre-sowing seed treatments enhanced the drought tolerance of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings, International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment at Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
  33. D.T.Gunawardena, M.K.T.K Amarasinghe, H.K.M.S Kumarasinghe, G.A.H Galahitigama (2015) Comparison of Nutrient Content in Acid Treated Fish Waste Compost with Normal Fish Waste Compost, International Forestry and Environment Science, Department of Forestry and Environmental Science, University of Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka
  34. G.A.H.Galahitigama, H.H.S.U.Sandaruwan, G.D.T.M.Senevirathna, M.I.Dilhani, A.Y.S.L.Silva (2015) Factors Affecting on Job Satisfaction in Garment Sector: A Case Study in Hirdaramani Group (pvt) Ltd, Kuruwita, International Conference on Promoting Socio-economic Equity in South Asia: Challenges and prospects Colombo, Sri Lanka
  35. G.A.H.Galahitigama, H.K.M.S.Kumarasinghe and D.L.Wathugala (2014) Effects of Different Presowing Seed Treatments on Morphological and Physiological Traits and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.), International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment (ISAE) at Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
  36. G.A.H.Galahitigama, H.K.M.S.Kumarasinghe (2014) Studies on Growth and Yield Performance of Japanese Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) as Effected by Ionized Fertilizer Instead of Using Albert’s Solution Under Controlled Environment, International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment (ISAE), Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka

Published Text Books for University/School Students

  • “Commercial Guava Cultivation” – A field book for beginners of Commercial level Guava cultivation (Sinhala version) was published under the ISBN No: 978-955-43480-0-4
  • “Commercially Important Cut flowers and Foliage Production” A horticulture book for local cut flower producers and beginners (Sinhala version) was published under the ISBN No: 978-955-644-124-6

Any Other

  • Awarded Japanease Govenment Scholarship (Monbukagakusho-MEXT)-2024 
  • Awarded Dr. P.S.J.W Serasinghe Memorial Gold Medal to the graduate who obtained the highest marks for Crop Science in the farm practice course Examination and for the Final Year Specialization programme of the Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, 2013