How to Identify Starry Sturgeon

To identify Starry Sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically dark grey to black, flanks lighter grey, and ventral surface white or yellowish-white. The scutes are often lighter, creating a contrasting pattern.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Long, slender, and pointed snout, often slightly upturned at the tip., Five rows of prominent bony scutes (dermal ossifications): one dorsal, two lateral, and two ventral. These scutes are star-shaped, especially in juveniles., Four barbels located closer to the mouth than to the tip of the snout, unfrayed., Lower lip is interrupted at the center., Relatively small, dark eyes.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin located far back on the body, with 40-50 soft rays.

Tail fin

Heterocercal caudal fin (upper lobe longer than the lower), typical of sturgeons.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins, relatively large and triangular.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located posterior to the pectoral fins. All fins are supported by cartilaginous rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Snout Shape

   The most distinguishing feature is its long, slender, and pointed snout, which is notably longer and more acute than other sturgeon species in its range.

2. 2

   Barbels

   Four unfrayed barbels are located closer to the mouth than to the tip of the snout. This is a key differentiator from species like the Russian Sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii) where barbels are closer to the snout tip.

3. 3

   Lower Lip

   The lower lip is distinctly interrupted in the middle, unlike some other sturgeon species where it is continuous.

4. 4

   Scutes

   The bony scutes are star-shaped, particularly noticeable in younger individuals, and are generally more numerous and smaller than those of other sturgeons.

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