Trout Travails
Saevus|March - May 2020
The gushing waters of the Tirthan bears within it a conflict of species which, if not regulated and monitored, could lead to the suppression and end of the native genus.
AASHNA SHARMA, DR VINEET K. DUBEY, DR J. A. JOHNSON
Trout Travails

Protected and undammed, yet invaded and predated.

The Himalayan region provides perfect hydrological regimes and altitudinal ranges favouring energy production through gravity dams. This has resulted in a multitude of dams all over the Himalayan rivers as recorded by the National Register of Large Dams (NRLD). Under such a scenario, it is rare and positive to have a river which is undammed and protected. One such lesser known river is Tirthan, in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is an interesting and strange example wherein public outrage and the presence of nonnative invasive species together laid the foundation for a legally protected river. To what extent such legal provisions can help in sustaining the native fauna of a river, is highlighted in this study.

Tirthan is unique in the way it maintains freshwater fish biodiversity. Its complete catchment, including the tributaries, is primarily an abode to just two species of fish, the non-native brown trout (Salmo trutta fario) and the native snow trout (Schizothorax richardsonii). Brown trout, a native fish of Europe was introduced in various parts of India during the British reign mostly for sport and commercial purposes. Both these species are known to show breeding and wintering migrations, and are potamodromous in nature (freshwater to freshwater migrations).

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM SAEVUSView all
Staying ALIVE!
Saevus

Staying ALIVE!

The importance of getting to the root causes of conflict with wildlife, is essential. Its mitigation will guarantee the very survival of all species.

time-read
8 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Frames from the WILD
Saevus

Frames from the WILD

A few amazing shots from a horde of incredible ones!

time-read
3 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
WAKE UP!
Saevus

WAKE UP!

A frightening thought a world without wildlife, mornings without birdsong, and all that we take for granted! We must realise the dangers threatening the beauteous green world and its inhabitants around us!

time-read
4 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Dolphin DILEMMA!
Saevus

Dolphin DILEMMA!

A crucial article to highlight the significance, and plight of Our riverine friends.

time-read
3 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Gecko Quest!
Saevus

Gecko Quest!

The authors take us on the trail of a gecko from West Bengal, through the hills of the Bankura district.

time-read
2 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Endangered EXOTICA!
Saevus

Endangered EXOTICA!

The author takes us on an exotic ride into the forests of Malaysia, allowing us glimpses of the beauties of its wildlife!

time-read
3 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Mellifluous Magpie!
Saevus

Mellifluous Magpie!

Immerse yourselves in the world of the musical and glorious Magpie Robin! The authors help acquaint us with this beautiful bird.

time-read
10+ mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Think Different!
Saevus

Think Different!

The author brings to us the very real concern for the horses employed around pilgrimage sites in India.

time-read
4 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Take Heed!
Saevus

Take Heed!

The authors make a case for the conservation of the rare and lesser-known Sociable Lapwing.

time-read
6 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Close Encounters!
Saevus

Close Encounters!

The author introduces us to two amazing yet very different bird species, showing us the diversity of our ecosystems,

time-read
4 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24