The management and protection of Ukrainian sturgeons during wartime

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

This article reviews the historical population status of Ukrainian sturgeon populations, assesses the current wartime situation, and develops future conservation priorities. Today, Ukraine is one of the few places in Europe where sturgeon still spawn naturally along their traditional migration routes. The review considers ways to enhance the protection of these populations and the pivotal role of coordinated efforts against poaching and illegal trade. The current state and problems of ex situ measures for natural populations are discussed. The potential of sturgeon farming in aquaculture to reduce anthropogenic pressure on natural populations is also considered. The article concludes that Ukraine requires an in-depth review of the existing legislative framework, the restoration of natural spawning grounds and increased releases of juveniles in order to fully restore populations. The successful conservation and survival of sturgeons in Ukrainian waters would require comprehensive support from partner countries, particularly the European Union.