Deccan Mahseer is a large freshwater fish species with a wide distribution in central and southern India. Despite this, it is an ‘Endangered’ species. A study in western India reported an alarming decline of almost 60% in its population. Its status in Eastern Ghats is more precarious due to widespread habitat degradation because of deforestation, illegal mining and damming of rivers. At the same time there is a serious lack of data on ecology and conservation status of Deccan Mahseers in Eastern Ghats. Therefore, this project will attempt at decreasing this gap in knowledge, and improving the conservation status of Deccan Mahseers in this region.

In this project, the distribution pattern of this species will be studied in northern Eastern Ghats, specifically in the Sileru River Basin. To assess the fishing pressure on Deccan Mahseer in this region, market surveys will be conducted. Further, potential impacts of damming on Deccan Mahseer will also be studied. This project will also help in creating awareness about this highly threatened species among the local fishermen as well as in local colleges and universities. The overall goal is to improve conservation of freshwater ecosystems and threatened fish species in Eastern Ghats.