Shovelnose Sturgeons [Scaphirhynchus]

Description

Scaphirhynchus is a genus of sturgeons known for their distinctive shovel-shaped snout, which they use to disturb the riverbed to find prey. Primarily found in the Mississippi, Missouri, and other rivers in the central United States, these fish have adapted to turbid, fast-flowing environments. While they are freshwater species, their unique morphological and ecological characteristics contribute to the diversity within the Acipenseridae family. They are of interest not only for their adaptation strategies but also for conservation efforts due to habitat loss and pollution.

Species

Taxonomy