Chinese Sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis)

The Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis) is a critically endangered and ancient migratory fish that has existed for over 140 million years. This living fossil, which can grow up to 5 meters long, undertakes an incredible journey from the ocean to spawn in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. However, the construction of dams—most notably the Three Gorges Dam—has blocked its migration routes and destroyed its spawning grounds. Combined with overfishing and water pollution, this has driven the species to the brink of extinction, making it a tragic symbol of human impact on river ecosystems.