Sturgeons are ancient fish species that have been around for over 200 million years. Known for their unique look and the famous caviar, these fascinating creatures are often called living fossils. This article highlights ten interesting facts about sturgeons, covering their biology, role in ecosystems, and the challenges they face today. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just curious, you'll find these facts about sturgeons both captivating and informative.
- Sturgeons are ancient fish, dating back over 200 million years.
- They can live up to 60 years, making them one of the longest-living fish species.
- Sturgeons have no scales; instead, their bodies are covered with bony plates called scutes.
- They can grow to impressive sizes, with some species reaching over 6 meters in length and weighing up to 1,500-2,000 kilograms.
- Sturgeons are migratory, often traveling long distances between freshwater and saltwater.
- They have a unique skeleton, primarily composed of cartilage rather than bone.
- Sturgeons use their barbels, whisker-like organs, to detect food on riverbeds.
- They play a crucial role in their ecosystems by maintaining the health of aquatic habitats.
- Many sturgeon species are endangered due to overfishing and habitat loss.
- Conservation efforts are underway globally to protect and restore sturgeon populations.