09/09/2025
The Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora): An Endangered Riverine Giant
The golden mahseer (Tor putitora), known as the “Tiger of the River,” is one of the largest cyprinids, reaching lengths of up to 2.7 m and weights exceeding 50 kg. Distinguished by its golden scales and strong migratory behavior, it is native to Himalayan river systems across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, and formerly Bangladesh.
This species inhabits clear, fast-flowing, well-oxygenated rivers with rocky substrates. An omnivorous feeder, it consumes algae, aquatic invertebrates, mollusks, small fish, and seasonal fruits, playing a key role in riverine nutrient cycling and food-web dynamics.
Reproduction is closely tied to the monsoon. Adults undertake long upstream migrations to spawn in high-altitude tributaries, where females deposit eggs in gravel beds. These environments provide the cold, oxygen-rich water required for egg development and fry survival.
Currently listed as Endangered by the IUCN, T. putitora faces severe population declines due to habitat fragmentation (dams and barrages), water pollution, destructive fishing practices, and sedimentation of spawning grounds from deforestation.
As an indicator species, the golden mahseer reflects the ecological integrity of Himalayan rivers. Its conservation requires restoring migratory routes, protecting spawning habitats, and enforcing sustainable fishing and water-quality regulations.
