Biology

Amphihaline and potamodromous fish (Ref. 51346, Ref. 51439), frequenting littoral zones (Ref. 2163, Ref. 51439, Ref. 51442). It lives the major part of his live in sea but enters rivers for reproduction (Ref. 30578, Ref. 51442). Juveniles found both in estuaries and in the sea (Ref. 2163). Usually solitary. Becoming rare (Ref. 4537). Feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, polychaete worms and small fishes. Eggs deposited on sand or gravel. A long-lived and slow-growing species (Ref. 9988). Utilized fresh and frozen, and also for caviar; eaten steamed, pan-fried, broiled, boiled, microwaved and baked (Ref. 9988). A threatened species, mainly due to bycatch, poaching, habitat degradation (spawning grounds, nursery areas) and physical obstacles to migration (Ref. 26160). Reaches 500-600 cm and maybe live up to 100 years. Sexually mature at an age of 7-9 years. Spawns at depths of 2-10 m over stony bottoms. Females produce 800,000-2,400,000 sticky dark grey eggs which adhere to the stones (Ref. 35388). Also Ref. 40476.