Researchers from the Central University of Odisha (CUO), Koraput, have identified two species of Mahseer fish in the Indravati River system of southern Odisha for the first time. This discovery marks a significant milestone in the biodiversity mapping of the region.
The two Mahseer species, Tor tor and Tor putitora, belong to the Cyprinidae family, known for their large bodies and prominent scales. Revered as the “King of the Indian Aquatic System,” Mahseer is also recognized globally among the 20 mega fishes of the world.
Led by Prof. Sharat Kumar Palita, Dean of the School of Biodiversity and Conservation of Natural Resources (SBCNR) at CUO, the team documented these species during fieldwork at the Indravati Market in Khatiguda, Nabarangpur. Subsequent sightings were made at the Indravati Reservoir in Mukhiguda, Kalahandi, and Kapur Dam, Nabarangpur. Laboratory verification at CUO and further authentication by the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata, confirmed their identity.
The Mahseer, known for its preference for fast-flowing, clear, hilly rivers with rocky and pebbly bottoms, holds cultural and ecological significance in India. Traditionally considered sacred, the fish is worshipped in Hindu temples. While Mahseer species have been previously documented in the Mahanadi, Brahmani, and Similipal regions of Odisha, this is the first instance of their presence in southern Odisha rivers.
The research highlights the global distribution of Mahseer, which spans 17 valid species across countries such as India, China, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Tor putitora (Golden Mahseer), native to the Ganga and Brahmaputra river systems, is classified as Endangered, while Tor tor is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN, underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Prof. Palita initiated research on Mahseer upon joining CUO six years ago, assigning the task to scholar Alok Kumar Naik. This discovery is a testament to the biodiversity of southern Odisha’s river systems and reinforces the importance of ecological preservation in the region.
Several Indian states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, have recognized Mahseer as their state fish, further emphasizing its cultural and ecological importance.
