Experience, Principles and Parameters in the Sturgeon Quality Assessment by Anomalies in Early Ontogenesis (A Review)

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The artificial reproduction of endangered Sturgeon in the transboundary Caspian basin has been performed by five states (Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan). The Russian Federation is the Sturgeon breeding leader with the largest number of Sturgeon Hatcheries—eight, which produce and release up to 61 million Sturgeon juveniles into the natural habitat. This technology was systematized and published in the Caspian states national and international scientific press and FAO. However, this guide does not sufficiently reflect the presence of Sturgeon anomalies in early ontogenesis, identified in the second half of the 20th century. The change in Sturgeon breeding paradigm from wild producers to brood stock spawners provides the incentive and basis for detailed study of Sturgeon anomalies. All previously known Sturgeon anomalies are divided into nine classes. Assessment of Sturgeon anomalies as predictors of their survival in the natural habitat will allow the evaluation of the Sturgeon stock status in the Caspian Sea. ABSTRACT: Purpose: Review the experience, principles and parameters of the sturgeon assessment quality by anomalies in early ontogeny. Results: Maintaining the number of sturgeon fish in the transboundary Caspian Sea is provided by five states (Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan) at 16 Sturgeon hatcheries, where their artificial reproduction is carried out. FAO recognizes Russia’s leadership in creating the basic technology for the sturgeon artificial reproduction, but the other four Caspian states also make a significant contribution to its modern optimizations. There is almost a century of tradition behind the technological development of artificial reproduction in sturgeons. During the artificial reproduction of sturgeons, anomalies in the structure and functions may occur, such as deformities, defects in organs and tissues, edema, hematomas, etc. The sturgeon anomalies classification is based on structural and functional principles. Identification of anomalies is carried out on the basis of a previously created classification, divided into nine large classes. Identification of sturgeon anomalies during the period of their artificial reproduction makes it possible to clarify the real value of replenishment of their stock. Methods: Analysis of professional scientific literature and practical guides. Conclusions: The presence and number of Sturgeon anomalies make it possible to determine their death percentage to calculate the real number of replenishment of the Caspian Sturgeon stock.