Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Acipenseridae that grows up to 346 cm.
Description
The Chinese sturgeon is a large anadromous sturgeon (Acipenseridae) that lives at sea but ascends the Yangtze River system in China to spawn. The species can grow to over 3 metres and has an elongate body with rows of bony back plates, a pointed snout and four barbels before an underslung, protrusible mouth. As a bottom-dweller it searches for worms, molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. Through dams, pollution and overfishing the species is critically endangered. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese sturgeon?
The Chinese sturgeon has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Chinese sturgeon live?
The Chinese sturgeon lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Japan, Korea (South)
How big does the Chinese sturgeon get?
The Chinese sturgeon grows to a maximum of about 346 cm. On average the species is around 39 cm.
Is the Chinese sturgeon dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese sturgeon is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Chinese sturgeon edible?
Yes, the Chinese sturgeon is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Chinese sturgeon?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese sturgeon is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Acipenser
More from the family Acipenseridae
Want the complete picture on the Chinese sturgeon?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese sturgeon is one of 12,519 species in the app.