The sterlet sturgeon (Acipenser ruthenus) is a small, freshwater sturgeon species native to rivers draining into the Black Sea, Caspian Sea, and Azov Sea basins. Known for its elongated snout and delicate, prized roe, the sterlet has long been valued for both its meat and caviar. Historically, Russia has been the leading country in sterlet sturgeon fishing, with significant populations also found in Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and other countries bordering the Caspian and Black Seas. Due to overfishing and habitat loss, wild sterlet populations have declined, prompting stricter regulations and the development of aquaculture, especially in Russia, Hungary, Germany, and China. Today, commercial sterlet sturgeon production is increasingly reliant on fish farming, with these countries leading in sustainable harvests and caviar production, helping to relieve pressure on wild stocks while meeting global demand.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Russian Federation | 14 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.