Integrative Taxonomy Clarifies the Historical Flaws in the Systematics and Distributions of Two <i>Osteobrama</i> Fishes (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) in India

The taxonomy and geographical distributions of <i>Osteobrama</i> species have historically posed challenges to ichthyologists, leading to uncertainties regarding their native ranges. While traditional taxonomy has proven valuable in classification, the utility of an integrated approach is restricted for this particular group due to limitations in combining information from biogeography, morphology, and genetic data. This study addresses the taxonomic puzzle arising from the recent identification of <i>Osteobrama tikarpadaensis</i> in the Mahanadi and Godavari Rivers, casting doubt on the actual distribution and systematics of both <i>O. tikarpadaensis</i> and <i>Osteobrama vigorsii</i>. The research reveals distinctions among specimens resembling <i>O. vigorsii</i> from the Krishna and Godavari riverine systems. Notably, specimens identified as <i>O. vigorsii</i> from the Indian Museum exhibit two pairs of barbels, while those from the Godavari River in this study are identified as <i>O. tikarpadaensis</i>. Inter-species genetic divergence and maximum likelihood phylogeny provide clear delineation between <i>O. vigorsii</i> and <i>O. tikarpadaensis</i>. The study suggests that <i>O. vigorsii</i> may be limited to the Krishna River system in southern India, while <i>O. tikarpadaensis</i> could potentially extend from the Mahanadi River in central India to the Godavari River in southern India. Proposed revision to morphological features for both species, accompanied by revised taxonomic keys, aim to facilitate accurate differentiation among <i>Osteobrama</i> congeners. The data generated by this research provide a resource for future systematic investigations into cyprinids in India and surrounding regions. Further, the genetic diversity information obtained from various riverine systems for <i>Osteobrama</i> species will be instrumental in guiding aquaculture practices and formulating effective conservation action plans.