Fishes of Chennai explores city’s native freshwater fish, explores its cultural connection

A field guide titled "Fishes of Chennai," authored by Aravind Manoj and Beta Mahatvaraj, was published on Madras Day. The guide aims to document the freshwater fish species found in the city's water bodies while exploring Chennai's historical cultural connection with fish.

The comprehensive guide, featuring over 100 species, includes more than 150 photographs, making it easier for readers to identify fish based on their body type and habitat preferences. Mr. Beta Mahatvaraj, one of the authors, emphasized that the guide covers not only well-known species like carps and catfish but also lesser-known native species.

The guide presents information about each fish, such as its size, diet, habitat, and conservation status, allowing readers without expert knowledge to understand the fish found in Chennai. The authors also highlight the impact of pollution and habitat loss on the city's fish populations.

The book differentiates between native fish species and those introduced to the city's waters. It serves as the first field guide to the freshwater and brackish fishes of Chennai and its surroundings, addressing a gap in the existing literature.