The starry sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus), also known as the stellate sturgeon, is a long-lived, anadromous fish native to the Caspian, Black, and Azov Sea basins. Recognized for its elongated snout and star-like bony scutes, this species is highly valued for its delicate flesh and, most notably, for its roe, which is processed into the prized sevruga caviar. Historically, the top countries involved in starry sturgeon fishing have been Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, all bordering the Caspian Sea. These nations have developed significant fishing and aquaculture industries centered around sturgeon, with Iran and Russia being particularly prominent in both wild capture (now heavily restricted) and aquaculture-based caviar production. Due to overfishing, habitat loss, and poaching, wild populations have drastically declined, leading to strict international regulations and a shift towards sustainable aquaculture practices in these leading countries.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kazakhstan | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.