Sturgeon, often referred to as living fossils, are large fish that inhabit temperate waters across the Northern Hemisphere. The question of whether sturgeon attack humans often arises. Intentional attacks by sturgeon on humans are extremely rare, if not virtually nonexistent. This perception stems primarily from misunderstandings of their natural behavior.
Sturgeon Characteristics and Behavior
Sturgeon are primarily bottom-dwelling fish, known for their impressive size. Some species, such as the Atlantic sturgeon, can reach lengths of up to 14 feet and weigh over 800 pounds, while historical records indicate even larger specimens, exceeding 20 feet and 3,000 pounds. Despite their formidable appearance, their anatomy and feeding habits do not support aggressive behavior towards humans. They possess bony plates, known as scutes, along their bodies, but these are for protection, not offense.
Sturgeon are benthic feeders, foraging along the bottom of rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Their diet consists mainly of small invertebrates such as crustaceans, worms, mollusks, insects, and detritus. They lack teeth and instead use their protrusible, siphon-like mouths to suck up food from the substrate. This specialized feeding mechanism makes them incapable of preying on large animals. They are docile and shy, typically avoiding interaction.
Understanding Accidental Interactions
Physical contact between sturgeon and humans, though uncommon, can occur, but these instances are not predatory attacks. One notable behavior is their tendency to leap completely out of the water. This jumping behavior is believed to serve two main purposes: communication with other sturgeon and the regulation of their swim bladder by gulping air to maintain buoyancy. It is not an act of aggression or an attempt to catch prey.
Accidental collisions can happen when a large, jumping sturgeon unexpectedly lands near or inside a boat, especially in areas with high sturgeon populations like parts of the Suwannee River. Such impacts, particularly with fast-moving vessels, can result in serious injuries to people and the fish alike. These incidents are comparable to wildlife collisions on roadways; they are unintentional and unfortunate accidents. Other rare scenarios involve accidental bumping during fishing or handling. Misinterpretations of these rare, accidental events often fuel public concern and contribute to the misconception that sturgeon are dangerous or aggressive.