Subterranean Fishes of the World

7035

2025

Records of the Zoological Survey of India

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Hillstream fishes are adapted to fast-flowing water found in streams and rivers in hilly regions. Based on the present study and available literature, 36 species from 17 genera, 7 families, and 2 orders have been reported. The habitat preferences and distributions of species vary according to morphological features. Species in torrential habitats exhibit extreme morphological adaptations. The conservation status of six species is categorised as threatened. Anthropogenic activities, which lead to pollution and the destruction of aquatic habitats, require urgent intervention. Keywords: Conservation, fishes, habitat, hillstream, Meghalaya, taxonomy, threatened

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