THE KEY THREATS TO STURGEONS AND MEASURES FOR THEIR PROTECTIONIN THE LOWER DANUBE REGION

摘要

The six native sturgeon species have been commercially harvested in the DanubeBasin for more than 2,000 years, with rapid decrease in catch by mid 19th century. Addi-tional negative effect on sturgeon populations in the Danube River was river regulation inDjerdap region, due to navigation in the late 19th century, as well as dam construction inthe second half of 20th century that blocked sturgeon spawning migrations. Beside over-fishing and habitat loss, illegal trade, life history characteristics of sturgeon, lack of effectivemanagement (due to lack of transboundary cooperation and change in political situa-tion in Lower Danube Region countries) and pollution all pose serious threats on sturgeonpopulations in Lower Danube Region. International measures established by the Conven-tion on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) in late 20th century, listing ofbeluga (Huso huso) as an endangered species under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, aswell as development of Action plan for conservation of sturgeons in the Danube River Basin,had significant impact on activities related to sturgeon protection at beginning of 21stcentury. These actions were aimed towards diminishment of pressure on natural sturgeonpopulations and aquaculture development in countries of Lower Danube Region.