Diamond Back Sturgeon 6-8" Live Fish

The Diamond Back Sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii), also known as the Russian Sturgeon, is a large, prehistoric-looking bottom-dweller characterized by distinct diamond-shaped, bony scutes along its back. Popular in large ponds, they have a long nose (rostrum), dark-colored back, and pale belly, often reaching 1–2 meters in length. 

Physical Appearance
Coloration: Typically dark blue, grey, or black on top with a white/cream underside.
Scutes: Rows of pale, starry bony platelets (scutes) run along the body, resembling diamonds, which are more pronounced in younger fish.
Shape: Torpedo-shaped with a blunt, rounded snout and a long, slender body.
Size: Can grow over 2 meters, though commonly 1–1.5 meters in large garden ponds. 

Key Characteristics and Habitat
Behavior: Active, bottom-feeding fish that must constantly swim to breathe.
Water Needs: Requires fast-moving, clean, and very well-oxygenated water, sensitive to poor quality.
Lifespan: Can live for 50–100 years in suitable environments.
Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on worms, crustaceans, and small fish. In ponds, they require specialized sinking pellets. 

Pond Care Requirements
Size: Needs a very large pond, ideally with a volume over 1,000 litres, as they grow quickly.
Conditions: Requires strong filtration and a, clean, debris-free bottom to avoid entanglement in algae.
Temperature: Cold-water species, but require extra oxygenation during the summer months