Water resource development and sturgeon (Acipenseridae): state of the science and research gaps related to fish passage, entrainment, impingement and behavioural guidance

Abstract

Acipenserids (sturgeons) live in large rivers and lakes in North America and Eurasia, where many species and populations are considered imperiled. One of the most pervasive threats across the global range of sturgeon is water resource development (e.g., hydropower dams, water intakes for irrigation, industrial use, or human consumption). We report on the outcome of a literature review focused on interactions between sturgeon and water resource development. We focused on the persistent issue of dam passage (both upstream and downstream), impingement, and entrainment, which are all relevant issues for both existing and planned facilities. We discuss aspects of sturgeon sensory physiology, and how knowledge of sensory physiology can be used for behavioural guidance. We also consider how the swimming ability and style of sturgeon is relevant for passage. Most of the literature emanated from research on just a few species (especially lake sturgeon, white sturgeon, green sturgeon, and shortnose sturgeon). Although there are several examples of apparent “success stories” (e.g., successful upstream fish passage, efforts to reduce impingement and entrainment), there are also many failures, and such examples are likely under-reported. Without significant investments in solutions-oriented research related to sturgeon-water resource development interactions, we submit that fish passage, entrainment and impingement problems for acipenserids will remain. There is a need for research that spans life-stages, compares different species, and considers how passage, entrainment, and impingement influence demography. Further, there is a need for investment into evidence-based implementation of mitigation infrastructure and management strategies to ensure conservation needs of sturgeons are adequately considered.