The Karnataka forest and fisheries departments have launched a recovery project for the critically endangered orange-finned mahseer, a fish native to the Cauvery river and known as the ‘tiger of water’.
A majestic fish once thrived in the waters of the Cauvery and its meandering tributaries — the humpback mahseer. But today, this aquatic wonder known as the “tiger of water” stands at the precipice of oblivion, clutching desperately to survival as it earns the dreaded title of “critically endangered” on the IUCN red list.
To breathe life back into its dwindling population, the Karnataka forest department has unfurled the Humpback Mahseer Recovery Project in partnership with the Wildlife Association of South India (WASI).
This remarkable species, also known as the orange-finned mahseer, boasts the potential to reach over 1.5 metres and tip the scales at a staggering 55 kg. It has always held an irresistible allure for anglers, drawing them like bees to nectar from far and wide.
“Once upon a time, Tor ramadevii (orange-finned mahseer) was abundant in our angling escapades,” reminisced Praveenkumar SP, deputy range forest officer of Halaguru Wildlife, Muthathi. “But now, it’s Tor khudree (blue-finned mahseer) that dominates our encounters.”
The Tor khudree, suspected to be an introduced species, is not the sole interloper. Commercial fish species like rohu and catla carps have established formidable footholds too.
The Cauvery basin, the hallowed realm of the humpback mahseer, now plays host to nearly 17 invasive species, a sombre testament to the challenges faced, according to conservation biologist Naren Srinivasan of WASI.
The native orange-finned humpback mahseer is losing ground. Pollution, dam construction and illegal, destructive practices like dynamite fishing have all conspired to orchestrate the decline of the humpback mahseer.
Seeking inspiration from the heartlands of Madhya Pradesh, where concerted efforts have revitalised the population of a related species, Tor tor, in the Narmada waters, Karnataka officials embarked on a quest for knowledge in 2021.
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In the Barwaha forest division of Madhya Pradesh, they had sculpted an artificial flowing water repository, a sanctuary where the magic of artificial reproduction breathed life into the species. Emulating this model, the Bheemeshwari camp within the Cauvery wildlife sanctuary infused life into its own haven, utilising the pristine waters of the Cauvery itself. A unique endeavour of community involvement unfolded, with local fishermen and their families enlisted to participate. Their livelihoods, intricately tied to these waters, found protection as they championed the cause of these irreplaceable species.
This collaborative approach has not only safeguarded their economic interests but also sparked awareness of these creatures’ vital role in the local ecosystem.
“The local fishermen possess an intimate knowledge of the fish’s behaviour and its seasonal habits,” explained Praveenkumar. “By involving them, we not only harness their expertise but also enable them to be ambassadors of awareness within their communities. But it will take over 25 years to see actual results.”
In this critical exercise, a cadre of 10-12 locals, including 25-year-old Nagendra, a member of the Soliga tribe, plays a pivotal role. These unsung heroes are the custodians of the sanctuary, ensuring the fish’s wellbeing, checking the quality of water and looking out for any disease breakout.
Nagendra’s journey underscores the profound impact of this initiative, drawing him closer to his homeland after toiling in a hotel in the bustling heart of Bengaluru until five months ago.
“When I first joined, the fish weren’t eating,” Nagendra recalled with a hint of anxiety. “They teased me, saying I’d killed them. I felt relief when they started feeding again.”
Then there’s 38-year-old Yesudas, a former dynamite-fishing poacher who has now transitioned into a conservationist. Hailing from Jageri village, where fishing traditions have been passed down through generations, Yesudas represents a metamorphosis of values and commitment.
Although he, like many others, lacks formal education, he adeptly measures water quality parameters like dissolved oxygen, nitrate, nitrite and ammonia content using colour-coded testing kits. Their capacity to absorb knowledge through imitation has enabled them to contribute significantly to the cause.
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Naren Srinivasan from WASI acknowledged the unparalleled expertise of these locals, especially in using cast nets — a traditional practice essential for assessing fish population density accurately. The art of throwing and retrieving these nets without damaging them is a skill that he believes is slowly fading away.
As the fish in the repository at the Bheemeshwari camp inch towards sexual maturity, a strategic plan unfolds. They are destined for the Harangi facility in Kodagu, where their eggs and milt will be collected to form zygotes — a collaborative effort between the fisheries and forest departments.
This partnership reflects a recognition that these guardians of the waters know no jurisdiction boundaries; they require vigilant protection even as they journey beyond the forest’s embrace.
Bheemeshwari is the first of five similar sanctuaries planned along the sinuous stretch of the Cauvery. Each site, from Chinnar wildlife sanctuary to Sathyamangalam tiger reserve, and the Dubare elephant camp, is meticulously chosen to maximise the preservation of genetic diversity of the humpback mahseer — a hallmark of responsible conservation.
For conservationists, the humpback mahseer serves as a gateway to safeguard the entire ecosystem of the Cauvery and its surrounding domains. Their vision extends beyond the revival of a species; it embodies a collective commitment to protect the lifeblood of these waters and honour the intricate dance of nature.
“We aim to elevate the humpbacked mahseer as a symbol of freshwater conservation,” said Srinivasan, echoing a sentiment shared by all who labour tirelessly for the future of these vital waters. In their pursuit, these unsung heroes breathe life into a precious legacy, preserving not only a fish but an entire ecosystem’s heartbeat.
The lead image at the top shows former dynamite-fishing poacher Yesudas demonstrating how a cast net is used. (Photo by Amulya B)
Amulya B is a multimedia journalist, writer and translator based in Bengaluru. Her stories explore the intersection of culture, society and technology. She is the winner of Toto Funds the Arts for creative writing and Laadli Award. She is a Rural Media Fellow 2022 at Youth Hub, Village Square.
