Its general purpose is to promote scientific and educational endeavors in any of the marine sciences or marine histories with the goal of obtaining knowledge for the ultimate benefit to mankind. Coral Fish- Sri Lanka, the wonders of her underwater world Sri Lanka's spectacular scenic beauty is rivalled only by the wonders of her underwater world," an apt saying as the sea surrounding the pearl of
the Indian Ocean holds many treasures; The multi-hued coral reef which encompasses the south and east coast is illuminated by the rays of the sun creating a magical effect along with the vibrant tropical fish, and the submerged shipwrecks offer ample opportunity for underwater archaeologists, photographers and adventure seekers alike. Shipwrecks: Most historians, educators and others now celebrating `Archaeological Week', seem to be exclusively preoccupied with the Sri Lanka's agro-based inland civilisation. But a deeper understanding of our society and the island's past is not possible without the knowledge of her maritime heritage. While saga of the ill-fated Titanic has mesmerized the world for decades, at least 100 wrecked ships lie at the sea bottom all around Sri Lanka although no proper records of these ill-fated vessels have been kept. A large number of these are legacies from the colonial past. They have to be retrieved scientifically without detriment to their archaeological status. Around the Bay of Galle alone there are over 20 shipwreck sites - some dating possibly to the 10th century. Forty years ago Sri Lanka's top scuba diver, underwater explorer and marine biologist, the late Rodney Jonklaas hit the headlines with his sensational discovery off Elephant Island, Trincomalee of what he described as a British warship well over 200 years old.