The Atlantic sturgeon is an ancient fish species that has inhabited the waters of North America for millions of years. It is known for its impressive size and distinctive bony scutes along its body.

Animal Fun Facts

• Living Fossils: The Atlantic sturgeon is a prehistoric species that has been around for over 120 million years, meaning it swam alongside the dinosaurs!
• Freshwater Giants: Atlantic sturgeon can grow up to 800 pounds and reach lengths of 14 feet, making them one of the largest freshwater fish species in North America.
• Homeward Bound: These fish are known as homestream-spawners. That means they usually return to the same freshwater river where they were born to reproduce.
• Population Decline: Overfishing and habitat loss have severely impacted Atlantic sturgeon populations, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.

Physical Description

The Atlantic sturgeon is a large, prehistoric-looking fish featuring bluish-black or olive-brown backs with lighter sides and bellies. One of its most distinctive traits is the five rows of bony plates called scutes that run along its body. Additionally, it has a pointed snout with four slender, soft tissue projections called barbels, located in front of its mouth. Its shark-like tail, with one lobe larger than the other, adds to its prehistoric appearance and helps it navigate in the water. Atlantic sturgeon can grow up to 14 feet long and weigh as much as 800 pounds.

Behavior & Diet

Atlantic sturgeon are bottom feeders that search for food on the bottom of bays and rivers. They eat primarily worms, crustaceans, and small fish, which they suck up using their vacuum-like snouts. These fish inhabit both saltwater and freshwater habitats, moving between the two throughout their lives.

Lifespan & Reproduction

Atlantic sturgeon have a long maturation period; males typically reach breeding age between 8-12 years, while females mature between 10-20 years. They can live up to 60 years.

These fish typically return to the same freshwater river where they were born to spawn. Spawning usually occurs in the spring, but if conditions aren’t ideal, females may skip a season and absorb their eggs. After a missed spawning attempt, they may wait up to three years before trying again.

At Mystic Aquarium

Guests can see the Atlantic sturgeon in the Follow Your Nose habitat, next to the giant Pacific octopus. They share their habitat with lake sturgeon, three species of gar, and paddlefish—all species with uniquely shaped snouts and fossil records dating back over a million years!