Why do people kill the Beluga Sturgeon?

The Beluga Sturgeon (Huso huso) is a critically endangered species of anadromous fish native to the Caspian and Black Seas. Several reasons contribute to the killing and exploitation of Beluga Sturgeon, leading to their population decline:

1. Caviar Poaching: Beluga Sturgeon is highly prized for its large and flavorful eggs, commonly referred to as caviar. The demand for caviar, especially from the Beluga, is driven by its rarity and association with luxury. Historically, caviar has been associated with wealth and indulgence, leading to substantial financial incentives for poaching and black market trade. Overfishing for caviar has been a significant factor in the species' population decline.

2. Illegal Fishing: Beluga Sturgeon is also caught illegally in addition to caviar poaching. Illegal fishing operations often target sturgeon during the spawning season when the fish migrate to freshwater rivers to lay eggs. These activities have disrupted natural reproduction cycles and further depleted the population.

3. Bycatch: Beluga Sturgeon is also unintentionally caught as bycatch in fishing operations targeting other species. Sturgeon species have specific habitat requirements and migration patterns, making them susceptible to capture in various types of fishing gear, including nets and traps. Bycatch can result in significant mortality rates for sturgeon, contributing to their population decline.

4. Habitat Destruction and Pollution: Beluga Sturgeon's natural habitats have been negatively affected by human activities. Dams, river modifications, and pollution have degraded spawning grounds and disrupted migratory routes, reducing their reproductive success and overall survival rates.

5. Lack of Conservation Efforts: In the past, insufficient conservation measures, lack of enforcement of regulations, and insufficient monitoring have contributed to the vulnerability of Beluga Sturgeon populations. The slow growth rate and late sexual maturity of sturgeon species further exacerbate the challenges of their recovery.

The combination of these factors has resulted in a significant decline in Beluga Sturgeon populations, leading to their critically endangered status. Efforts are underway to protect the remaining populations through conservation measures, including stricter regulations, monitoring, anti-poaching initiatives, and the establishment of protected areas to ensure the survival of this iconic species.