Cauvery River Aquatic Ecology and Mahseer Conservation, Mandya

The Cauvery river flowing through Mandya district supports one of South India's most important freshwater fisheries, historically centred on the Golden Mahseer (Tor khudree) and Hump-backed Mahseer (Tor remadevii). The Cauvery Mahseer was one of the world's most prized sporting fish in the colonial era, drawing British anglers from across India. Traditional Jenu Kuruba and Golla fishing communities along the Mandya Cauvery reach maintain knowledge of the river's seasonal fish migration patterns and traditional fishing methods. The establishment of the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary in 1987 protects a 65 km river stretch in Mandya, with a captive Mahseer breeding programme at Mekedatu. International conservation organisations collaborate with local communities on Mahseer population recovery.