How to Identify False shovelnose sturgeon

To identify False shovelnose sturgeon (Pseudoscaphirhynchus kaufmanni), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically grayish-brown to olive-brown, fading to a lighter, yellowish-white or cream color on the ventral side. The bony scutes are often darker.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Flattened, shovel-like snout, which is relatively broad and short compared to other sturgeon species., Four barbels located closer to the mouth than to the tip of the snout, often fringed., Absence of a spiracle., A series of bony scutes (dermal plates) along the body: 10-15 dorsal scutes, 28-40 lateral scutes, and 6-11 ventral scutes., The caudal peduncle is long and slender, often covered with small bony plates.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin located far back on the body, near the caudal fin. It is relatively small and triangular.

Tail fin

Heterocercal caudal fin, with the upper lobe being longer than the lower lobe, characteristic of sturgeons.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins are relatively large and positioned ventrally.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are also paired and located abdominally. All fins are supported by cartilaginous rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Snout Shape

   Look for a distinctly flattened, broad, and relatively short shovel-like snout. This distinguishes it from other sturgeon species with more pointed or elongated snouts.

2. 2

   Barbels

   Observe the four barbels on the underside of the snout. They are typically fringed and positioned closer to the mouth than to the tip of the snout.

3. 3

   Body Scutes

   Count and examine the bony scutes. The number and arrangement (dorsal, lateral, ventral) are key diagnostic features. Note the small bony plates covering the caudal peduncle.

4. 4

   Absence of Spiracle

   Unlike some other sturgeon species, P. kaufmanni lacks a spiracle (a small opening behind the eye).

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