Acipenser oxyrinchus

Acipenser oxyrinchus, commonly known as the Atlantic sturgeon, is a large, ancient fish native to the eastern coast of North America. It can grow over 14 feet long and weigh more than 800 pounds. This species has a bony, armored body and a long, slender snout with whisker-like sensors called barbels. Atlantic sturgeon are bottom feeders, primarily eating fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They are considered endangered due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. Historically, they were important for their oil and caviar, but now they are protected to help ensure their populations recover.