OT Staff
Endemic to the Ganges-Brahmaputra basin, this blind freshwater dolphin uses echolocation to navigate murky waters. It’s India’s National Aquatic Animal.
This carnivorous freshwater turtle has a leathery shell and is commonly found in large northern rivers. It plays a key role in cleaning aquatic ecosystems by feeding on carrion and fish.
One of the largest freshwater fish in the world, the golden mahseer inhabits Himalayan rivers. It is valued both ecologically and recreationally and is highly sensitive to water quality.
These social mammals thrive in healthy river systems across India. Known for sliding on mudbanks and using tools to crack shells, they are a top predator and ecological health indicator.
Though not aquatic, pangolins are often spotted near riverbanks where ants and termites are plentiful. Covered in keratin scales, they roll into tight balls to evade predators.
Also known as the seenghala, this large catfish species is found in northern Indian rivers. It feeds on smaller fish and crustaceans and is important to inland fisheries.
Inhabiting slow-moving rivers, marshes and reservoirs, the mugger is a broad-snouted crocodile found across the Indian subcontinent. It is a top predator and occasionally enters human settlements near rivers.
Identified by the distinctive ridge or “roof” on its shell, this turtle is often seen basking on rocks or logs in slow-moving rivers. It feeds on plants, insects, and snails.
This endangered bird skims river surfaces with its elongated lower mandible to catch fish. It nests on sandy riverbanks, making it vulnerable to habitat loss from riverbank development.
Though not native, this translucent jellyfish species is now found in Indian lakes and river-fed reservoirs. It appears seasonally and feeds on zooplankton, posing no threat to humans.