The Shortnose Sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum) is a critically endangered species of fish belonging to the family Acipenseridae. It is a fascinating and unique creature, known for its distinctive features and crucial role in its ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Acipenser brevirostrum is characterized by its short, blunt snout, from which it derives its common name. Adults can reach a maximum size of 143.0 cm in length, and their bodies are covered in five rows of bony plates called scutes. They possess a distinctive dark gray to brown coloration on their dorsal side, fading to a lighter gray or white on their ventral surface.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Shortnose Sturgeon is primarily found in the coastal waters of the western Atlantic Ocean. It is known to inhabit estuaries, rivers, and bays, with a depth range of 6.0 – 53.0 meters. This species is particularly prevalent in the Chesapeake Bay, Delaware Bay, and the Hudson River, demonstrating its preference for brackish and saltwater environments. The species is also found in the Gulf of Maine and the coastal waters of New England. This distribution encompasses several marine zones, including the neritic zone and the estuarine zone.
Taxonomy
The species Acipenser brevirostrum belongs to the Class: Chondrostei, Order: Acipenseriformes, and Family: Acipenseridae. This classification places it within the group of ancient fish known as sturgeons, which are characterized by their cartilaginous skeletons, elongated bodies, and prominent scutes.
Feeding
Acipenser brevirostrum is a bottom-feeder, relying on a diet of invertebrates, crustaceans, and worms. Their diet includes various species such as crabs, rock shrimps, and edible crabs. They also consume insects and zoobenthos, demonstrating their adaptability to different food sources available in their benthic habitats.
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