Mahseer

Tor tor

The mahseer (Tor tor), also known as the tor mahseer or red-finned mahseer, is a large freshwater cyprinid in the family Cyprinidae. Adults can reach over 150 cm and 50 kg with a powerful, torpedo-shaped body, large golden scales, and distinctive red to blood-red fins. The head is relatively large with thick, fleshy lips and barbels. This species inhabits fast-flowing rivers and deep rocky pools at depths of 0-15 meters in the rivers of central India, particularly in the Narmada, Mahanadi, and other central Indian river systems. Tor tor are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, algae, insects, crustaceans, and small fish. They are considered sacred in some Hindu traditions and are important culturally. As apex freshwater predators, they require clean rivers with rocky substrates and sufficient flow. Their impressive size, fighting ability, and declining populations make conservation efforts critical across their range.