Pseudoscaphirhynchus hermanni
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwarf_sturgeon
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Dwarf Sturgeon faces severe population decline primarily due to dam construction along the Amu Darya River system, which has fragmented its habitat and disrupted natural flow patterns essential for spawning. Overfishing and illegal harvesting for caviar have further decimated remaining populations, while water diversions for irrigation have dramatically reduced river flows. Climate change exacerbates these pressures by altering precipitation patterns and increasing water temperatures beyond the species' tolerance range.
Habitat
The Dwarf Sturgeon inhabits the lower reaches of the Amu Darya River system in Central Asia, preferring deep river channels with moderate to strong currents. It requires specific spawning grounds in upstream areas with gravel substrates and clean, well-oxygenated water.
