Known only from Western Ghats (Ref. 56014). Occurs in Mudikayam (Ref. 45255) and Travancore hill ranges in Kerala (Ref. 4832). Recorded from Periyar river system (Ref. 41236), Kallar, Kallada, Chalakkudy, Chaliyar and Aralam (Ref. 43641). Its populations have dwindled at an annual rate of 70% recently and are under threat due to indiscriminate exploitation for internaltional ornamental trade in a boom and bust fishery (Ref. 74592). This fish was first exported in 1996 and since then it has become a regular among the native ornamental exports from India at retail prices ranging from US$ 20-30 (Ref. 74592). Some fisheries research institutions have initiated captive breeding programs of this species (Ref. 74592). The following are conservation recommendations: generate data on population dynamics, stock characters and life histrory; reduce catch and effort through efficient fisheries management programs; and implement in-situ conservation strategies such as no-take zones and protected areas (Ref. 74592). Also Ref. 43640, 87807.

Status of threat: Endangered (Ref. 50614).