Thai Mahseer – Tor tambroides – Thai Fish Species

 
Species: Tor tambroides.

Common names: Greater Brook Carp, Thai Mahseer. Thai Name: Pla Wien.

Distribution: Found in Southeast Asia. There are reported catches from Malaysia, Thailand, Sumatra, Java, also Borneo, and Myanmar (Burma).

Habitat: They inhabit specific types of habitats characterized by clear, well-oxygenated rivers and streams in hilly and mountainous regions. The clarity of the water is essential for their survival, as it allows them to spot prey and navigate effectively. These fish are well-adapted to environments with fast-flowing currents. They can withstand strong water currents and are often found in areas with riffles and cascades. The water temperature in their habitat can vary depending on the region and elevation but is generally cool to moderately warm. These fish are adapted to a range of temperatures within their native range.

Prefer habitats with rocky or gravelly substrates. These substrates provide shelter, breeding sites, and places to forage for food. While they are often found in fast-flowing water. Thai Mahseer may seek sheltered areas along the riverbanks, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. Overhanging vegetation or submerged tree roots can provide shade and refuge. It’s worth noting that the conservation of Thai Mahseer and their habitat is of great importance. Habitat degradation, pollution, and overfishing are threats that can negatively impact their populations. Conservation efforts often focus on preserving the pristine river and stream ecosystems where Thai Mahseer thrives to ensure the long-term survival of this species in its natural habitat.

Thai Mahseer (Tor tambroides)

Is a freshwater fish species in the Cyprinidae family of the order Cypriniformes (Carp). They are a striking and beautifully colored freshwater fish known for their distinctive appearance. They have a streamlined compact body, which is typical of fish adapted for fast-flowing rivers and streams. The most notable feature of the Thai Mahseer is its vibrant and eye-catching coloration. Juveniles have a gold/bronze-colored scales with a prominent and dark lateral line. This line is a sensory organ that helps the fish detect vibrations and changes in water pressure, assisting them in navigating turbulent waters. The stripe also helps them blend in with their surroundings and provide camouflage. Their dorsal (back) fin, anal (ventral) fin and caudal fin (tail fin), as well as the pectoral and pelvic fins, are usually, transparent-tinged with a hint of light blue.

As they mature their coloration can change

Adults Thai Mahseer often have a more solid and subdued coloration, with shades of olive-green or brown on the upper part of their bodies and a lighter, gold/bronze- color on the lower part of their bodies. They may still retain some remnants of the juvenile stripe. The coloration can vary somewhat depending on their specific habitat, and water conditions. Fish in clearer waters might exhibit brighter colors, like Silver Grey/with a hint of light blue, while those in murky or tannin-stained waters might have darker hues. It’s important to note that the coloration of fish can also be influenced