Sterlets – Ancient Elegance for Coldwater Ponds

Introduce a touch of prehistoric grace to your pond with the Sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) — a captivating species of sturgeon admired for its streamlined body, armored scales, and calm demeanor. With roots tracing back over 200 million years, Sterlets offer a truly unique addition to any coldwater setup.

Unlike their larger sturgeon relatives, Sterlets remain a manageable size, typically reaching 2–3 feet in length, making them suitable for medium to large ponds. Their slow, graceful swimming and bottom-feeding behavior bring both movement and serenity to your aquatic space.

Key Features:

• Distinctive Appearance: Slender, torpedo-shaped body with barbels and bony scutes

• Coldwater Specialist: Thrives in temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C)

• Peaceful and Non-Aggressive: Coexists well with koi and goldfish

• Bottom Dweller: Helps keep pond bottoms clean by foraging for food

Care Guidelines:

• Pond Size: Minimum 1,000 gallons with well-oxygenated, clean water

• Water Temp: 40–68°F (4–20°C); prefers cooler climates

• Diet: Sinking sturgeon pellets, bloodworms, and insect larvae

• Filtration: Strong oxygenation and good flow essential

• Lifespan: Up to 25 years in optimal conditions

Note: Sterlets require deep, oxygen-rich ponds with minimal obstruction and plenty of room to swim near the bottom. Avoid keeping them in warm or shallow ponds, especially during summer.

Bring history to life in your pond with the Sterlet — a living fossil that offers rare beauty, gentle nature, and a peaceful presence in any aquatic garden.