Carps are a vital component of global freshwater fish production, particularly in India, where both Indian major carps and indigenous species contribute to aquaculture. This study reviews the food and feeding habits of select peninsular carps, highlighting their potential for aquaculture diversification and biodiversity conservation. Indigenous species such as Hypselobarbus pulchellus, Barbodes carnaticus, Labeo fimbriatus, Labeo kontius, and Tor khudree demonstrate adaptability to natural productivity, reducing reliance on artificial feeds. Gut content analyses reveal dietary patterns ranging from herbivory to omnivory, with species consuming vascular plants, algae, molluscs, and insects. Feeding behavior varies across life stages, with juveniles relying on zooplankton and diatoms, while adults shift to macrophytes and benthic organisms. Integrating these species into polyculture systems could enhance aquaculture efficiency and support conservation efforts for threatened endemic fish.