Shovelnose Sturgeon
NameShovelnose Sturgeon
Scientific NameScaphirhynchus platorynchus
Common NamesShovelnose Sturgeon, Sand Sturgeon
FamilyAcipenseridae
OriginNorth America, Mississippi River Basin
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)1000
Max Size (Inches)30
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-75
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesOther large, peaceful, coldwater fish (in extremely large, specialized setups), Other large sturgeon species
Description
The Shovelnose Sturgeon is a unique, bottom-dwelling freshwater fish native to the Mississippi River Basin. Characterized by its flattened, shovel-like snout and bony plates (scutes) along its body, it is the smallest North American sturgeon species but still grows quite large. Due to its significant size and specific environmental requirements, it is considered an expert-level fish, primarily suited for very large, specialized aquariums or ponds.
