Researchers from Central University of Odisha discover two Mahseer fish species in the Indravati River, setting a new biodiversity record for southern Odisha.
Koraput, Odisha : In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers led by Professor Sarat Kumar Palita, Dean of the Department of Biodiversity and Conservation of Natural Resources at the Central University of Odisha, have identified two rare Mahseer fish species in the Indravati River. This marks the first recorded discovery of these species in southern Odisha, shedding light on the region’s rich and underexplored biodiversity.
The Discovery and Its Significance
The research team, working under Professor Palita, successfully identified the species Tor tor and Tor putitora—two prominent members of the Mahseer family (Cyprinidae), often referred to as the "King of Indian Rivers." Known for their large size and shimmering scales, Mahseer fish hold a revered status in India, both ecologically and culturally. They are recognized among the world’s top 20 largest freshwater fish families.
The discovery of these Mahseer species from the Indravati River, an inter-state river flowing through southern Odisha, is a major milestone. It not only expands the known habitat range of these fish but also places Odisha at the forefront of freshwater biodiversity research.
Cultural and Ecological Importance
Mahseer fish, celebrated for their size and strength, inhabit fast-flowing, cool, and pristine mountain streams with rocky and gravelly substrates. They are also revered as sacred in several Hindu temples across India, often symbolizing the connection between spirituality and nature.
Previously, Mahseer species were reported from Odisha’s Mahanadi, Brahmani, and Similipal regions. However, this is the first time such species have been documented in southern Odisha, underscoring the unexplored ecological richness of the region.
Research Journey : Six Years of Dedication
Professor Palita initiated this research six years ago, shortly after joining the Central University of Odisha. Under his guidance, Ph.D. scholar Alok Kumar Nayak conducted extensive studies, beginning with observations of fish specimens in local markets, such as Khatinguda Bazaar and Indravati Bazaar in Nabarangpur.
Further investigations led the team to the Indravati Reservoir in Mukhiguda, Kalahandi, and the Kapur Dam in Nabarangpur. Laboratory analysis confirmed the fish as Mahseer species, a finding later validated by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) in Kolkata.
Scientific Classification and Context
The identified species, Tor tor and Tor putitora, are widely distributed across India, from the Himalayan foothills to the Brahmaputra Valley. The Tor putitora, also known as the Golden Mahseer, is predominantly found in the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers and northern regions like Meghalaya and Manipur.
This discovery not only sets a new record for southern Odisha but also adds significant data to India’s overall aquatic biodiversity. Additionally, it challenges earlier assumptions about Mahseer distribution, as the Mahanadi species, once thought to be Tor putitora, has now been classified as a distinct species, Tor mahanadicus.
Odisha's Contribution to Mahseer Diversity
With this discovery, Odisha now hosts four distinct Mahseer species:
• Tor Tor
• Tor Putitora
• Tor Mahanadicus
• Tor Khudree
Locally known as “Kaisari” or “Khaisar,” these fish are an integral part of the aquatic culture in Nabarangpur. In some communities, particularly among Bengalis, they are called “Mahasol.”
Global and National Implications
Globally, Mahseer species belong to three genera: Tor, Neolissochilus, and Naziritor. The genus Tor is considered the “true Mahseer,” with 17 species recorded across South Asia and Southeast Asia. India alone is home to nine species, making it a biodiversity hotspot for Mahseer fish.
This latest finding further establishes Odisha as a crucial region for biodiversity research, particularly within the Godavari river basin, where the Indravati River flows.
Publication and Recognition
The study’s findings have been published in the Asian Journal of Conservation Biology, a prestigious scientific journal. This recognition underscores the importance of Odisha’s rivers in contributing to global biodiversity and emphasizes the urgent need for conservation efforts.
A Call for Conservation
The discovery of these Mahseer species is not just a scientific milestone but a clarion call for preserving the pristine aquatic ecosystems of Odisha. With increased anthropogenic pressures on freshwater habitats, the significance of such findings cannot be overstated. The Indravati River’s ecological treasure trove now demands greater attention to ensure the survival of these majestic fish for future generations.
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