How to Identify White Sturgeon

To identify White Sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically grey to olive-brown, fading to a lighter, often white or cream-colored ventral surface. The scutes are usually lighter than the body color.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Five rows of bony scutes: one dorsal, two lateral, and two ventral. The dorsal scutes are typically 11-14, lateral 38-48, and ventral 9-12., Four smooth, unfrayed barbels located closer to the tip of the snout than to the mouth., Shovel-shaped snout., Heterocercal tail (upper lobe longer than lower)., Lack of scales, replaced by tough, leathery skin.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin located far back on the body, posterior to the pelvic fins, with 44-54 rays.

Tail fin

Heterocercal caudal fin, deeply forked, with the upper lobe significantly longer than the lower lobe.

Pectoral fin

Large, paddle-like pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal. All fins are supported by cartilaginous rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Scute Count

   Count the number of dorsal, lateral, and ventral scutes. White Sturgeon typically have 11-14 dorsal, 38-48 lateral, and 9-12 ventral scutes. This is a key differentiator from Green Sturgeon.

2. 2

   Barbel Position

   Observe the position of the four barbels. In White Sturgeon, they are closer to the tip of the snout than to the mouth. In Green Sturgeon, they are closer to the mouth.

3. 3

   Snout Shape

   White Sturgeon have a more shovel-shaped or conical snout compared to the blunter, more rounded snout of Green Sturgeon.

4. 4

   Coloration

   White Sturgeon are generally lighter in color (grey to olive-brown dorsally, white ventrally) and lack the prominent olive-green coloration and distinct lateral stripes often seen in Green Sturgeon.

5. 5

   Anal Fin Rays

   Count the anal fin rays (28-33 for White Sturgeon), which can help distinguish from other sturgeon species.

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