Genetic Diversity of Stellate Sturgeon in the Lower Danube River: The Impact of Habitat Contraction upon a Critically Endangered Population

One of the last wild populations critically endangered stellate sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus) survives in Danube River. Limited knowledge about genetic structure, ecology, and evolution this species led to poor inconsistent management decisions with an increased risk for extinction wild. Here we show results structure screening River population over 12 years timespan. Our research does not bring evidence recovery. No structuring was identified at mitochondrial level concerning spawning migration timing, sampling locations, developmental stages. Eleven maternal lineages were revealed based on restriction fragment lengths analysis D-loop region, one haplotype as most frequent. While could be result a massive restocking activity using reduced number spawners, our data support it. The selection haplotypes under pressure habitat contraction narrower range temperature variation since dams’ construction river explain observed distribution. Several factors managerial concern are discussed. provide baseline mtDNA diversity exceptionally high socioeconomic conservation interest.