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The genetic manipulation and cross breeding of farmed guppies have gained significant attention due to their potential to enhance desirable traits and explore the vast genetic diversity present in these ornamental fish. This abstract provides an extensive overview of the strategies employed in cross breeding and genetic manipulation in farmed guppies. It discusses various breeding techniques, such as selective breeding, hybridization, and artificial insemination, along with the ethical considerations surrounding genetic manipulation. Additionally, the abstract delves into the potential benefits and challenges associated with these practices and highlights future research directions in this field. Guppies (Poecilia reticulata) are one of the most popular and extensively studied ornamental fish species due to their vibrant colors, diverse fin shapes, and interesting behavior. The farmed guppy industry has capitalized on these traits by selectively breeding and genetically manipulating guppies to enhance desired characteristics and create unique strains. The use of cross breeding strategies and genetic manipulation techniques has played a crucial role in achieving these goals. Selective breeding has been a fundamental approach for improving guppy strains. This technique involves carefully selecting individuals with desired traits as parents for the next generation. By selectively breeding for specific traits, such as color patterns, fin shapes, body size, and behavior, breeders have been successful in developing guppies with enhanced aesthetic appeal. The principles of heritability and selection intensity guide breeders in choosing the most promising individuals for breeding. Maintaining genetic diversity during selective breeding is essential to avoid negative effects such as inbreeding depression. Strategies such as rotational breeding and the use of genetic markers have been employed to mitigate these risks and preserve genetic variability. Hybridization, both interspecies and interspecies, has been explored as a means to introduce new genetic material and create novel traits in guppies. Interspecies hybridization involves breeding guppies with other closely related species, which can lead to the development of unique characteristics and broaden the gene pool. Interspecies hybridization, on the other hand, focuses on crossing different strains of guppies to generate new variations and combinations of traits. While hybridization offers the potential for increased genetic diversity and novel traits, careful consideration must be given to genetic compatibility and potential trade-offs. Improving disease resistance in farmed guppies is another critical aspect addressed through cross breeding and genetic manipulation. By selectively breeding for resistance to common diseases, breeders have successfully developed guppy strains with enhanced disease resistance, reducing the impact of common pathogens. Identifying genetic markers associated with disease resistance has aided in selecting and breeding individuals with higher resistance levels. Environmental adaptation has also been a focus in guppy breeding. Guppies have been selectively bred to exhibit tolerance to different temperature regimes, salinity levels, and pH variations. By breeding guppies that can thrive in varying environmental conditions, breeders aim to increase their adaptability and resilience. Challenges and limitations associated with cross breeding and genetic manipulation in guppies include the potential risks of inbreeding depression and genetic drift. These risks highlight the importance of maintaining genetic diversity, implementing effective breeding strategies, and utilizing molecular tools to mitigate the negative effects of limited genetic variation. Ethical considerations, including animal welfare and the potential ecological impacts of genetically modified guppies, should also be carefully evaluated and addressed. Future perspectives in cross breeding and genetic manipulation of farmed guppies revolve around the advancement of genomic approaches and the integration of molecular techniques. Whole-genome sequencing and genomic selection offer exciting possibilities for enhancing breeding programs and manipulating guppy genomes. Additionally, exploring and preserving the genetic diversity in wild guppy populations can contribute to the development of more resilient and diverse farmed strains. In conclusion, cross breeding strategies and genetic manipulation techniques have significantly influenced the development of farmed guppies. These approaches have allowed for the enhancement of desirable traits and the exploration of the vast genetic diversity present in guppies. While offering numerous benefits, including improved aesthetics, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability, challenges such as inbreeding depression and ethical considerations must be carefully managed. With the advancement of genomic tools and the integration of molecular techniques, the future of guppy breeding holds promising prospects for further enhancements and conservation of genetic diversity.

The implementation of high-density nursery systems with recirculating technology has emerged as a promising approach to replace the traditional 10x10 ft cement tank systems in ornamental fish farming. This research paper explores the design, setup, and potential benefits of such a system, aiming to optimize space utilization, improve production efficiency, and reduce environmental impacts. The literature review highlights the successful application of high-density nursery systems in various aquaculture sectors, including finfish, shellfish, and ornamental fish production. These systems offer advantages such as reduced grow-out time, enhanced survival rates, and improved overall production efficiency. The controlled environment provided by highdensity nursery systems allows for efficient management of water quality, feeding regimes, and disease prevention. Furthermore, the integration of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) components in these systems enables precise control over water quality parameters, temperature, and feeding practices. Economically, the adoption of high-density nursery systems with RAS technology offers advantages in terms of increased production within limited space. By rearing fish at high densities, farmers can significantly improve overall profitability. The efficient use of space allows for higher stocking densities, leading to increased productivity per unit area. This reduces the need for large land areas and enables farmers to optimize their production capacity. Moreover, the shortened production cycles in high-density nursery systems can lead to faster turnover and quicker returns on investment. From an environmental perspective, high-density nursery systems with RAS technology offer several benefits. The recirculating nature of these systems allows for the continuous reuse of water, reducing water usage and minimizing the discharge of effluents into the environment. The incorporation of advanced filtration systems in RAS ensures the removal of solid waste and the conversion of toxic compounds, promoting water clarity and reducing the release of pollutants. The controlled environment and optimized waste management in high-density nursery systems contribute to maintaining water quality and minimizing the impact on natural water bodies. Additionally, the reduced reliance on wild-caught fish for feed production in highdensity nursery systems has positive environmental implications, conserving wild fish populations and reducing pressure on marine ecosystems. The successful implementation of high-density nursery systems with RAS technology relies on factors such as proper system design, efficient management practices, and adequate training of personnel. A welldesigned system should consider tank configuration, water filtration and treatment, aeration, temperature control, and monitoring systems. Efficient management practices, including regular monitoring of water quality parameters and fish health, are crucial for optimal system performance. Proper training of personnel is essential to ensure effective operation and management of high-density nursery systems. While there are challenges associated with implementing high-density nursery systems, such as the initial capital investment and the complexity of system operation, the potential benefits outweigh these challenges. The increased productivity, cost savings, and reduced environmental impact make high-density nursery systems with recirculating technology a promising alternative to traditional cement tank systems in ornamental fish farming. In conclusion, the implementation of high-density nursery systems with recirculating technology offers significant potential for the transformation of traditional 10x10 ft cement tank systems in ornamental fish farming. By optimizing space utilization, improving production efficiency, and reducing environmental impacts, these systems can contribute to sustainable and profitable aquaculture practices.

The ornamental fish industry heavily relies on brine shrimp (Artemia) as a primary diet for fish larvae due to its nutritional value and convenience. However, the need to find a suitable replacement has become crucial due to several challenges associated with brine shrimp. These challenges include availability limitations, environmental concerns, and economic implications. This research paper delves into the importance of introducing a liquid alternate diet to replace brine shrimp in the ornamental fish industry and highlights the benefits it can offer. The paper begins by discussing the limitations of relying solely on brine shrimp as a primary diet for fish larvae. It explores the issues of availability, which can be influenced by factors such as seasonal variations and fluctuations in supply. Additionally, the ecological impacts of brine shrimp harvesting from natural habitats are examined, highlighting concerns related to biodiversity loss and disruption of the food chain. Economic implications, such as the potential for price volatility and increased production costs, are also considered. To address the need for a sustainable and reliable alternative, this paper presents a recipe for a liquid alternate diet specifically designed for fish larvae. The nutritional benefits of the liquid diet are emphasized, focusing on the selection of high-quality protein sources, essential vitamins and minerals, and optimal lipid profiles. The customizability of the liquid diet to meet the unique nutritional requirements of different ornamental fish species is also discussed. The manufacturing process of the liquid diet is outlined, encompassing key steps such as ingredient mixing, blending, homogenization, and emulsification. The importance of proper mixing techniques and quality control measures is emphasized to ensure uniform distribution of ingredients and product consistency. Sterilization and packaging considerations are also highlighted to ensure product safety and extended shelf life.

Delay of due payments from the client to the main contractor and the subcontractors have been a significant concern in the building and other construction industry. Main contractor’s payment is always set out from the client’s account, whereas subcontractors’ payment goes through the main contractors. In any evet the time taken to make the payment and the amount of the payment can be affected by the up-stream payment practices by all the related parties in a contract. This research aims to study, investigate, the issues related to payments with the main focus of identifying the avenues to minimize the consequences faced by the contractors and others on the downstream in Sri Lankan construction Industry. The data collection to the report was done by a survey approach using a semi structured interviews with the industry related personal. 30 Number of people were interviewed and sought their views on nature, effects, problems faces by the related people due to the delay and non-payment to the contractors. The research findings exhibit that government funded projects are highly exposed to delay in payments when comparing to foreign funded or privately funded projects. At the time of the final payment to the main contractor the payment is always delayed more than obtaining the retention and the interim payments. While there were less issues when obtaining the advance payments. It is also noticed that the main factor to delay the final payment is the problems and disputes arising due to the variations and extra work not being evaluated properly during the interim payment application. The research also revealed the three main reasons for the payment delays are the paymaster’s poor financial management, delays of certification of the bills by the consultants, and the improper bills and documents from the contractors. Due to these delays contractors and sub-contractors face difficulties in managing their cash flows which has a significant impact to the payment chain. Eventually ending with poor quality construction and delay in the completion of the project. Research further evaluate and investigate the strategies adopted by the contractors to mitigate the problems stated above by way of adopting contractual bindings and provisions such as claiming interests to the delayed payments and reducing the speed of the construction to reduce the cash outflows during the delay payment periods. It was also revealed that other than the contractual bindings, contractors use their own strategies such as obtaining bank loans, infuse more equity funding and requesting on account payments from the clients in order to minimize the problems. The research there for recommend that each party in the chain of construction need to procure necessary security for the payments from each higher tier, and a separate form of a binging contract to all subcontractors and construction contracts law. This will ensure the contractors will get paid on time.

Summary Background We report the main findings of the WHO Multicountry Survey on Maternal and Newborn Health (WHOMCS), which aimed to assess the burden of complications related to pregnancy, the coverage of key maternal health interventions, and use of the maternal severity index (MSI) in a global network of health facilities. Methods In our cross-sectional study, we included women attending health facilities in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East that dealt with at least 1000 childbirths per year and had the capacity to provide caesarean section. We obtained data from analysis of hospital records for all women giving birth and all women who had a severe maternal outcome (SMO; ie, maternal death or maternal near miss). We regarded coverage of key maternal health interventions as the proportion of the target population who received an indicated intervention (eg, the proportion of women with eclampsia who received magnesium sulphate). We used areas under the receiver operator characteristic curves (AUROC) with 95% CI to externally validate a previously reported MSI as an indicator of severity. We assessed the overall performance of care (ie, the ability to produce a positive effect on health outcomes) through standardised mortality ratios. Results From May 1, 2010, to Dec 31, 2011, we included 314 623 women attending 357 health facilities in 29 countries (2538 had a maternal near miss and 486 maternal deaths occurred). The mean period of data collection in each health facility was 89 days (SD 21). 23 015 (7·3%) women had potentially life-threatening disorders and 3024 (1·0%) developed an SMO. 808 (26·7%) women with an SMO had post-partum haemorrhage and 784 (25·9%) had pre-eclampsia or eclampsia. Cardiovascular, respiratory, and coagulation dysfunctions were the most frequent organ dysfunctions in women who had an SMO. Reported mortality in countries with a high or very high maternal mortality ratio was two-to-three-times higher than that expected for the assessed severity despite a high coverage of essential interventions. The MSI had good accuracy for maternal death prediction in women with markers of organ dysfunction (AUROC 0·826 [95% CI 0·802–0·851]). Interpretation High coverage of essential interventions did not imply reduced maternal mortality in the health-care facilities we studied. If substantial reductions in maternal mortality are to be achieved, universal coverage of life-saving interventions need to be matched with comprehensive emergency care and overall improvements in the quality of maternal health care. The MSI could be used to assess the performance of health facilities providing care to women with complications related to pregnancy. Funding UNDP–UNFPA–UNICEF–WHO–World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP); WHO; USAID; Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan; Gynuity Health Projects.