Most of us know about sharks, the largest predators of the deep, with the Whale Shark being the largest bony fish in the world. However, not as many know of the Beluga Sturgeon, a massive species of predatory fish that lives in rivers.
This species is native to Eurasia, and specifically the Black, Caspian, and Azov sea (as well as the feeding rivers). It reaches a whopping 26 feet, which makes it by far the biggest freshwater fish in the world and a literal monster.
Unfortunately, this species is under a considerable threat due to poaching and is fairly rare nowadays. Like other species of sturgeon, the Beluga sturgeon is sought after and exploited for black caviar.
Unlike many species of fish, the sturgeon does not reproduce annually (despite living over 100 years at times). This means that when the number of sturgeons begins to decline, it is difficult for the population to catch up.
The species is listed as critically endangered and at risk of extinction. All is not lost for the Beluga sturgeon however, as it does produce millions of eggs at a time.
If proper protection can be given to the fish’s mating cycle, there is hope for the species to regroup and survive. Sturgeons in general are one of the oldest species of fish in the world, and in general have a resemblance to dinosaurs or creatures from a very long time ago. Let us hope we can protect this magnificent species so it doesn’t end up like dinosaurs!