Occurrence of South American sucker armoured catfish (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) in the Gayathripuzha River, Palakkad, Kerala

An intensive survey was undertaken and reported the existence of an invasive armoured sailfin catfish Pterygoplichthys pardalis from Bharathapuzha River, Palakkad, Kerala, India, its invasion as one foremost threats to endemic aquatic biodiversity Kerala. It belongs Genus (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) which is known popular aquarium fish that constitutes most successful freshwaters taxa, having achieved global distribution. The occurred through culture trading intensified by distribution rainstorm flooding irrigation canal. were identified based on morphological tests, fishes ranged in length (9.50-31.75cm) weight (8.16-129.80 g). Distribution leads understanding changes disturbances species composition negative impact riverine ecosystem.