Morphological parameters and allometric growth of stellate sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus Pallas, 1711) under artificial cultivation conditions

This article presents the findings of a comprehensive scientific investigation into the morphometric parameters and allometric growth patterns of sterlet sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus Pallas, 1711) at four years old age group (n=298). The research was conducted under industrial fish farming conditions at Mozhaisk Experimental Fish Breeding Plant from 2013 to 2025. The primary objective of this study was to identify growth and development patterns of this valuable species currently threatened by extinction due to anthropogenic impacts and climate change in its natural habitats. The sample was divided into two subgroups (n=219 and n=79) based on size-weight characteristics to ensure greater accuracy and reliability of obtained data. During the study, detailed analyses were performed on key morphometric indicators including total body length, commercial length (from snout tip to base of median caudal rays), trunk circumference, distance from snout beginning to cartilaginous mouth arch, body mass, maximum body height, Fulton's condition factor, physical development index, and leanness index. It has been established that sterlet exhibits negative allometric growth, indicating formation of a slender body shape. This phenomenon is crucial for understanding adaptation mechanisms of fish to artificial rearing conditions and subsequent optimization of technological processes related to their maintenance and reproduction. Experimental data demonstrate significant influence of industrial cultivation conditions on morphological and physiological characteristics of sterlet. These findings can serve as a reliable basis for developing science-based strategies aimed at enhancing productivity and improving quality of cultivated products, as well as implementing urgent measures for preservation and restoration of disappearing natural populations of this species. Additionally, the paper discusses promising directions for further research focused on comprehensive examination of genetic and morphological factors influencing growth and development of sterlet within aquacultural production systems.

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