Sturgeons

Stocks of sturgeono used for caviar are on the decline worldwide with some species now in danger of extinction. This situation has been caused partly by excessive fishing of sturgeon, but also by the destruction of sturgeon habitats and water pollution. Today, this situation is further exacerbated by the smuggling of sturgeon and caviar, by bartering and by related illegal activities.

The findings from investigations of sturgeon fisheries, and information from caviar importers in consuming countries, sturgeon specialists and fisheries agencies are presented. The exploitation of Caspian sturgeons is assessed, as is Caspian caviar production, its regulation or lack thereof, and its impact upon the number of sturgeons remaining. International trade is aslo analysed.