Golden Mahseer Tor putitora, commonly known as the ‘Tigers of the Rivers’, is an endangered freshwater fish species. In Bhutan it is found in all the major rivers and is expected to be present at elevations as high as 1000 meters during the summer spawning season. Being a migratory fish, the Golden Mahseer migrates back to its wintering habitats at the lower elevations, near the southern border. Historically, throughout its full range across the Himalayas, Golden Mahseer conservation in general has had a significant knowledge gap regarding their taxonomy, ecology, distribution and population status, which has hindered conservation action planning. The species is also faced with considerable threats from habitat destruction, illegal fishing, river pollution, and obstruction of its migratory routes by dams. Socio-culturally, it is also the most sought-after fish for both food and recreational fishing and the various species of Tor also have high religious and cultural significance throughout South and Southeast Asia. In Bhutan, the Golden Mahseer is one of the eight auspicious symbols in Buddhism (locally known as “Sernya”) and has great cultural, religious, and historical significance.
Golden Mahseer Conservation Action Plan for Bhutan 2022-2032
