The sturgeon (also known as the European sturgeon) is a unique and ancient fish species that has existed for many years. With its elongated body, pointed snout, and characteristic bony plates (without scales), it has a distinctive, almost prehistoric appearance. It is one of the largest freshwater fish and can grow up to two meters long, although smaller species also exist. Sturgeons are true bottom dwellers and swim calmly through the pond in search of food. They thrive best in larger, well-oxygenated ponds with sufficient oxygen levels. They are generally social in nature and can live well with other pond fish, provided there is enough space and suitable food available. Due to their calm temperament and impressive appearance, sturgeons are a striking and popular addition to the pond.
Sturgeons are freshwater fish and are only suitable for spacious ponds, not aquariums. They require plenty of swimming space and thrive best in a pond with a large volume and sufficient depth, so that the water temperature remains stable. In addition, a high oxygen level in the water is essential, for example by using an air pump, fountain or waterfall. The pond should preferably have a soft, obstacle-free bottom, as sturgeons continuously swim along the bottom and are sensitive to injuries to their body and snout. Sharp edges, coarse stones or debris on the bottom should therefore be avoided. Although sturgeons are not true hiding fish, it can still be beneficial to create calm zones in the pond where they are less disturbed by other fish. Also ensure proper filtration and water circulation to keep the water quality stable. A well-designed pond with sufficient space, oxygen and calmness is essential to keep sturgeons healthy.
Sturgeons are true bottom feeders and use their snout to search the bottom for small animals. With their barbels (feelers), they detect where food is located and then suck it up. In nature, their diet mainly consists of insect larvae, worms and small crustaceans, which should be replicated in the pond as closely as possible. Therefore, it is recommended to provide special sturgeon feed that quickly sinks to the bottom and does not remain floating. This feed is tailored to their nutritional needs and contains sufficient protein to keep them in good condition. Sturgeons prefer to eat at dusk or during the night and often do so more calmly than other fish. It is therefore important to ensure that other fish do not consume all the food, so the sturgeon gets enough. Optionally, their diet can occasionally be supplemented with natural food such as worms or insect larvae for added variety.
Sturgeons are social and can generally live well with other pond fish such as koi. However, it is important that tank mates are not too dominant during feeding, as sturgeons may otherwise not get enough food. Avoid fish that may nip at the sturgeon or create too much competition during feeding.
Sturgeons require stable water quality with sufficient oxygen and proper filtration. Regularly checking the water and performing (partial) water changes is important. Also pay attention to temperature fluctuations and prevent the pond from freezing over completely in winter, so that gas exchange can always take place. Due to their specific needs, sturgeons are somewhat more sensitive and require consistent and careful care.
Aquarium fish are beautiful to watch and bring both calm and liveliness into the home. Whether you are a beginner or have been an aquarium enthusiast for many years, there are always species that remain popular because of their colors, behavior, or ease of care. Below you will find an overview of the 10 most popular aquarium fish, including the most important information and housing requirements for each species.
Whether you have an aquarium full of tropical fish or a pond with goldfish: proper nutrition is the foundation for healthy, active fish. But what do fish actually eat? The answer is less simple than you might think, because not every fish eats the same food. In this blog, we explain the different types of fish food available and what you should keep in mind.
Are you going on holiday, away for a day, or wondering whether your fish really need to be fed every day? In this blog, you will read how long fish can go without food, which factors play a role, and what you should take into account.
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