Past and Future of Sturgeon Species (Acipenseridae) in Western Balkans: Case for Permanent Conservation or Sustainable Management

Abstract

Sturgeon species in Western Balkans are mainly occupying the Danube River basin, which represents one of the centers for sturgeon diversity. Although there are numerous negative anthropogenic impacts (habitat fragmentation, pollution, fishery pressure) on sturgeons, constructions of hydropower dams in the Iron Gate area severely decreased their natural spawning habitats and only sterlets have a viable population upstream from Iron Gate 2 dam. Review of the status and population trends based on available statistics, pollution impact, composition and change in their diet, the impact of invasive species, as well as restocking and ex situ conservation programs will be presented. Assessment of legislation and sturgeon protection projects and their impact on wild sturgeon populations will be discussed.