Fin's Fish Guide
The Sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) is a freshwater fish of the family Acipenseridae that grows up to 125 cm.
Fresh water of the large rivers of Central and Eastern Europe to Siberia, such as the Danube, the Volga and the Ob; unlike other sturgeons almost entirely confined to fresh water.
Description
The sterlet is the smallest sturgeon in Europe; this ancient, cartilage-rich fish of the family Acipenseridae reaches about 1.25 metres. Instead of scales the elongate body bears five rows of bony plates. The pointed snout has fringed barbels in front of a protrusible, inferior mouth, with which the fish probes the bottom for insect larvae, worms, shellfish and small crustaceans. Unlike most sturgeons the sterlet is almost entirely confined to fresh water and lives in the large rivers of central and eastern Europe through to Siberia. It grows slowly and matures late; through dams, pollution and fishing for its caviar the wild populations have declined sharply and it is assessed as Endangered (EN). It is, however, widely farmed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sterlet?
The Sterlet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Smallest sturgeon of Europe, with five rows of bony scutes, a pointed snout and fringed barbels; the most freshwater-bound sturgeon species.
Where does the Sterlet live?
The Sterlet lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of the large rivers of Central and Eastern Europe to Siberia, such as the Danube, the Volga and the Ob; unlike other sturgeons almost entirely confined to fresh water.
How big does the Sterlet get?
The Sterlet grows to a maximum of about 125 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Sterlet dangerous to humans?
No, the Sterlet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sterlet edible?
Yes, the Sterlet is a highly prized food fish.
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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 Sterlet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sterlet is one of 12,519 species in the app.