Endemic to Western Ghats (Ref. 50614). Known from Cauvery river system in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka (Ref. 41236). Occurs in Thanjavur area, Western Ghats (Ref. 40976); Bhavani River, Tamil Nadu (Ref. 44148). Constitutes a valuable fishery ranging from 5-50% of the catches in the various fishing centers along the stretches of the Cauvery river system (Ref. 4832). In Tangore area this fish forms an important item of the tank fisheries, in most cases the fry and fingerlings getting naturally stocked during rainy season when the tanks get connected with the irrigation canals leading from the river (Ref. 4832). Cultivated in ponds in South India but does not breed (Ref. 4832). Also Ref. 43640, 43641, 45255.

Status of threat: Vulnerable (Ref. 41236); endangered (Ref. 50614).