Fin's Fish Guide
The Sand Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus platorynchus) is a freshwater fish of the family Acipenseridae that grows up to 108 cm.
Description
The shovelnose sturgeon is a sturgeon (Acipenseridae) from central North America. The species grows to about 1 metre and has an elongate body with rows of bony plates, a flattened, shovel-shaped snout and four barbels before the inferior sucker mouth. It inhabits the bottom of the main channels and embayments of large, turbid rivers, often in flowing water over sand mixed with gravel and mud. With its barbels and sucker mouth it searches the bottom for insect larvae and other invertebrates. Owing to dams and habitat loss the species is considered vulnerable. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sand Sturgeon?
The Sand Sturgeon has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Shovel-shaped snout and barbels above the sucker mouth; become vulnerable through dams.
Where does the Sand Sturgeon live?
The Sand Sturgeon lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central North America; main channels of large turbid rivers.
How big does the Sand Sturgeon get?
The Sand Sturgeon grows to a maximum of about 108 cm. On average the species is around 72 cm.
Is the Sand Sturgeon dangerous to humans?
No, the Sand Sturgeon is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sand Sturgeon edible?
Yes, the Sand Sturgeon is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Acipenseridae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sand Sturgeon is one of 12,519 species in the app.