Paddlefish and Similar Species
Polyodon spathula
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Paddlefish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Sturgeons (various species)
Acipenseridae family
Key differences: Sturgeons have five rows of bony scutes (plates) along their body, a subterminal, protrusible mouth, and four barbels in front of the mouth. Paddlefish lack scutes, have a large terminal mouth, and possess a distinctive paddle-shaped rostrum.
Chinese Paddlefish
Psephurus gladius
Key differences: The Chinese Paddlefish, now considered extinct, had a more sword-like, pointed rostrum, and was native to the Yangtze River system in China. The American Paddlefish has a broader, more paddle-shaped rostrum and is native to North America.
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