Lake Sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens

This fish is critically imperiled in the state of Indiana. The lake sturgeon is a large fish that presently lives in the southern end of Lake Michigan, parts of the Mississippi River, and the White River. The historic range of the lake sturgeon ran from southern Canada through the southeastern United States. They live primarily on the bottoms of large freshwater rivers and lakes; however, they travel between these deep habitats and shallower waters. This fish can grow up to eight feet long and weigh up to 300 pounds. Males live approximately 55 years and females live between 80 and 150 years. The major reason for the species’ endangerment is due to unsustainable use. Also their habitats have been changed by human disturbance such as building dams and pollution.

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