Acipenseridae is a family of ray-finned fish commonly known as sturgeons. It is a diverse group that belongs to the order Acipenseriformes and includes approximately 27 species distributed throughout various parts of the world. Sturgeons are mostly found in freshwater systems, including rivers, lakes, and estuaries, although some species are known to inhabit marine environments.
These fish are characterized by their elongated bodies, large size, and bony plates known as scutes or dermal scutes, which are present along their sides and back. They possess a heterocercal tail, meaning that their caudal fin is asymmetrical, with the upper lobe being larger than the lower one. Sturgeons also possess a unique cartilaginous skeleton, lack teeth in their mouth, and instead have a suction-like mouth adapted for bottom-feeding.
Sturgeons are highly valued for their meat and caviar, which has led to overfishing and habitat degradation, resulting in the decline of many species. As a result, several sturgeon species are critically endangered or face extinction, making conservation efforts crucial.
These ancient fish, with a lineage tracing back to the Mesozoic era, are considered living fossils due to their primitive characteristics that have remained relatively unchanged over millions of years. They play important ecological roles in ecosystems, serving as predators and contributing to the nutrient cycling process. Sturgeons are also known for their longevity, with some individuals living up to 100 years or more.
In summary, Acipenseridae refers to the family of fish known as sturgeons, characterized by their large size, elongated bodies, cartilaginous skeletons, and scutes. They possess unique adaptations for bottom-feeding and are highly valued
