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(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) Endangered Water Tigers of the Himalayas Story of the Golden Mahseer

(October-2023)

Rivers are the foundation of humanity. One such Indian river system, which is the epitome of our cultural and religious beliefs, is the holy Ganges. It is home to many life forms, including humans. It is also home to a legendary fish species, the tiger of the Ganga — ‘The Golden Mahseer’.
The Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora) is one of the largest freshwater fishes in the Himalayan rivers. This fish has been popular since its discovery in the colonial era.
In 1822, the avid English angler Hamilton introduced the fish to the world, as it offered all the thrills of a European salmon.
Since then, the desire to see one has always piqued the interest of anglers from around the world. And eventually, the golden mahseer became an integral part of the Himalayan River ecosystem. But the golden scales are not the only interesting part of the species!