Thai Mahseer (Tor tambroides)
Thai Mahseer are found in clear, cold freestone rivers in the heavily forested mountain valleys of Mae Hong Son Province in north-west Thailand. Some rivers have sections holding high stocks of these fish.
Adults inhabit pools and runs over gravel and cobble in rivers flowing through undisturbed forests (Ref. 12693). Juveniles were most commonly collected in or near rapids (Ref. 27732). Found in small rivers and streams during the dry season. Move downstream at the onset of the rainy season, but generally avoid turbid waters. Mature individuals migrate upstream after two months and spawn in July near the mouths of small streams that the young subsequently ascend. Omnivorous, feeding on both animal and vegetable matter, at times consuming toxic fruits in flooded forests, making them temporarily inedible. Source: Fishbase.org
Blue Mahseer (Neolissochilus stracheyi)
Blue Mahseer are found in the same locations as Thai Mahseer. Distribution is Asia: Myanmar through Thailand and possibly to the Cardamon Range, Cambodia (Ref. 12693). Known from Salween, Maeklong, Chao Phraya, Mekong and Peninsular and Southeast Thailand river systems (Ref. 26336).
Inhabits clear forested streams and rivers (Ref. 12693). Occurs in swift flowing streams (Ref. 43281). Disappears when human activities degrade aquatic habitats, as seen in other members of the genus (Ref. 12693) Source: Fishbase.org
Mahseer -- More Information
Rudyard Kipling, in reference to the Golden Mahseer in India (also found in Mae Sariang rivers) said “There he stood, the Mahseer of the Poonch, beside whom the Tarpon is a Herring and he who catches him can say he is a fisherman.”
