Fin's Fish Guide
The Malabar mahseer (Tor malabaricus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The Malabar mahseer is a mahseer, a large cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from fast-flowing fresh water of the Western Ghats in southern India. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a powerful, silvery body with large scales, an inferior mouth and barbels. As a bottom-oriented fish it lives in clear mountain rivers and pools and eats algae, water plants, insects, fruit and small animals. It is a famed sport fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Malabar mahseer?
The Malabar mahseer has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Malabar mahseer live?
The Malabar mahseer lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: India
How big does the Malabar mahseer get?
The Malabar mahseer grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Malabar mahseer dangerous to humans?
No, the Malabar mahseer is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tor
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Malabar mahseer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Malabar mahseer is one of 12,519 species in the app.