A new study conducted by Indian and British biologists indicates that the ‘Humpback Mahseer’ fish is on the brink of extinction. This unique fish is a freshwater fish that is found only in India’s Cauvery Basin. This fish is also well known to anglers around the world as one of the largest and hardest fighting freshwater fish in the world. The study shows that this sharp decline is due to pollution, sand extraction and various hydel power projects. The scientists have been closely studying the ecology, taxonomy and conservation status of 17 different species of the Mahseer fish. These fish have been populating rivers throughout South and Southeast Asia since 2010. Of these, four species are already listed as 'Endangered' on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List. With the fish distribution being limited to South India’s Rivery Cauvery basin, this fish is now believed to be so endangered that it may be extinct in the wild within one generation, reported PTI. The scientists’ research has led to a startling discovery. Their study suggests that the introduction of the non-native blue-finned Mahseer from Maharashtra during the 1980s acted as the catalyst which has had a negative effect on the numbers of endemic Mahseer remaining in the River Cauvery and its numerous tributaries. The blue-finned Mahseer is not native to the River Cauvery but over two years, they are now one of the most abundant fish in the river. The state of confusion surrounding Mahseer taxonomy means the humpback Mahseer currently lacks a valid scientific name and could potentially go extinct before being named, a scientist said, according to the report.