WHAT IS A STURGEON?

A sturgeon is a large, primitive fish belonging to the family Acipenseridae. Sturgeons are known for their bony-plated bodies, unique anatomy, and ancient lineage. They have been around for over 200 million years and are often referred to as “living fossils.” Sturgeons are anadromous fish, meaning they spend part of their lives in the sea and part in freshwater rivers. They are famous for their roe (eggs), which are harvested to make caviar, a luxury food item. Sturgeons are found in various parts of the world and have different species, each with its own characteristics and habitats.

RARE FACTS ABOUT STURGEONS


1. ANCIENT SPECIES
Sturgeons are among the oldest living species of fish, with a history dating back more than 200 million years.

2. LONGEVITY
Some sturgeon species, like the beluga sturgeon, can live for more than 100 years. They take a long time to reach sexual maturity, with some not breeding until they are 15-25 years old.

3. CAVIAR PRODUCTION
Sturgeons are famous for their roe, or eggs, which are harvested to make caviar. The most prized caviar comes from the beluga sturgeon.

4. ANADROMOUS BEHAVIOR
Most sturgeon species are anadromous, meaning they spend part of their life in the sea and part in freshwater. They migrate upstream to spawn in the same river where they were born.

5. UNIQUE ANATOMY
Sturgeons have a unique bony-plated body and lack proper scales. Instead, their skin is covered in rows of bony plates called scutes.

6. CARTILAGE SKELETON
Sturgeons have a cartilaginous skeleton, like sharks, instead of the typical bony skeleton of most fish.

7. ACIPENSERIFORMES ORDER
Sturgeons belong to the Acipenseriformes order, which also includes paddlefish. They are often referred to as “living fossils” due to their ancient lineage.

8. SENSORY ORGANS
Sturgeons have specialized sensory organs called barbels, which dangle near their mouths. These help them detect food on the riverbed.

9. ENDANGERED STATUS
Many sturgeon species are critically endangered due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these ancient fish.


Remember that sturgeon facts can vary depending on the specific species and their habitats.