Putitor mahseer

Description

Tor putitora,the Putitor mahseer,Himalayan mahseer,or golden mahseer,is an endangered species of cyprinid fish that is found in rapid streams,riverine pools,and lakes in the Himalayan region and south Asia,ranging from Iran south to Sri Lanka,and east to Thailand.It is a popular gamefish,the largest species of mahseer,and can reach up to 2.75 m (9.0 ft) in length and 54 kg (119 lb) in weight,though most caught today are far smaller.It is threatened by habitat loss,habitat degradation and overfishing,and it already has declined by more than an estimated 50%.This omnivorous species is generally found near the surface in water that ranges from 13 to 30 °C (55–86 °F).The Indian golden mahseer is distinguished from others in the mahseer family by its long snout and slender body.Its caudal,pelvic,and anal fins show tint of reddish-golden color.While the body above its lateral line is generally golden in color at adulthood,the gold color might be absent in young specimens.