Golden mahseer are iconic Himalayan game fish increasingly cultured in India for conservation and food. Their welfare in culture systems reflects their sensitive high-oxygen habitat requirements.
Golden mahseer welfare in culture systems requires replicating the cold, well-oxygenated river conditions of their natural habitat. Water temperature above 20 degrees C causes chronic thermal stress and increases disease susceptibility. Their natural rheotaxis behaviour means tank current provision is important for welfare. The conservation motivation for their culture provides additional impetus for welfare standards, as stressed fish are less suitable for restocking programmes. Developing hatchery protocols that maintain welfare through sensitive developmental stages is essential for conservation aquaculture success.