Tor Mahseer

Description

Tor Mahseer – Tor tor | Red-Finned Giant of Indian Rivers

Tor Mahseer (Tor tor) is a majestic and culturally significant freshwater fish found across India’s central and eastern river systems. Often referred to as the Red-Finned Mahseer, it is known for its striking red or orange fins, large size, and importance in inland fisheries and recreational angling. This species is a close relative of the Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora) and is equally admired for its strength and ecological role.

Key Characteristics:

• Scientific Name: Tor tor

• Common Names: Tor Mahseer, Red-Finned Mahseer

• Size: Can grow over 1.5 meters and weigh more than 25 kg

• Appearance: Deep-bodied fish with olive-grey to silver scales and bright reddish-orange fins

• Habitat: Rocky pools, clear rivers, and hill streams of the Ganges, Narmada, Mahanadi, and Godavari basins

  Ecological & Cultural Significance:

  • Considered a bio-indicator species—its presence reflects clean, oxygen-rich rivers

  • Culturally significant and sometimes worshipped in local rituals

  • Plays a key role in the food chain, feeding on plants, algae, insects, and crustaceans

    Conservation Status:

    • Classified as Near Threatened or Vulnerable in many areas due to overfishing, river damming, and habitat loss

    • Conservation programs focus on captive breeding, stock enhancement, and habitat protection

    • Efforts are underway through state fisheries departments and NGOs to repopulate rivers with Tor Mahseer juveniles

      Role in Sport Fishing:

      • A popular species among anglers for catch-and-release sport fishing

      • Targeted in riverine tourism across regions of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh

      • Provides recreational and economic value to local communities near river stretches