Feasibility of reintroduction of European sturgeon in the river Rhine basin

Overview

If a giant fish has survived for 90 million years, it’s certainly one worth saving. This project explores the complex interplay between ecology, life history, and human impact to determine whether the critically endangered European sturgeon (Acipenser sturio) can be successfully reintroduced into the Rhine River basin.

Aims and objectives

The European sturgeon—a living fossil that can grow up to 5 meters—is on the verge of extinction in the wild. Reintroduction efforts, led by a Dutch consortium of WWF-NL, ARK Rewilding the Netherlands, Rotterdam Zoo and the Dutch Angling Alliance (Sportvisserij Nederland), aim to restore the species to major European rivers. The Rhine, with its improved water quality and renewed connectivity, appears to be a promising candidate. But after a 70-year absence and in the face of climate change, can the sturgeon truly reestablish itself?

This project assesses the ecological suitability of the Rhine, identifies remaining bottlenecks, and monitors habitat use by juvenile sturgeons. It exemplifies how Wageningen University & Research (WUR) contributes to enhancing biodiversity and environmental resilience.

Methods

Juvenile European sturgeons were tagged using telemetry and released into the Lower Rhine to track their migration routes to the sea. The study also evaluated the risk of ship propeller strikes on migratory fish, and the potential for collaboration with commercial fishermen, including technical feasibility and willingness to participate.

Results and next steps

Initial findings are promising. The project has entered its second phase, in which young European sturgeons are being reared at Rotterdam Zoo (Blijdorp) to boost their growth before future release into the Rhine. This will enhance the fish’s survival, which is key to build a future population. Next step aims to enhance survival rates and support long-term population recovery.