Lake sturgeon is a freshwater fish whose oldest recorded individuals have exceeded 150 years.
Lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens, is a North American sturgeon found in the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River basin, and parts of the Hudson Bay drainage. It grows slowly, matures late, and can live for many decades, with some individuals documented at more than 150 years old.
Its long lifespan is linked to slow growth and delayed reproduction. These traits also make populations vulnerable to overfishing, habitat fragmentation, pollution, and the loss of spawning grounds. Dams can prevent adults from reaching suitable rivers.
Lake sturgeon are bottom-feeders. Their toothless mouths protrude downward to vacuum up invertebrates, while sensitive barbels help locate food. Despite its name, the species also inhabits large rivers and is not restricted to lakes.