60,000 Liters of Life in the Heart of Vienna

Europe’s largest mobile aquarium recently made a spectacular appearance in front of the Natural History Museum in Vienna. From June 21 to 23, 2024, visitors to Maria-Theresien-Platz were able to marvel at this 12-meter-long installation filled with 60,000 liters of water—home to sturgeons and other native Danube fish. But the exhibit was more than just visually stunning; it was designed to educate and inspire.

Saving the Sturgeon

The LIFE-Boat4Sturgeon project aims to rescue the last four remaining sturgeon species in the Danube from extinction. Sturgeons are among the most ancient fish species on Earth, having existed for over 200 million years. Yet today, they are among the most critically endangered animal families worldwide.

Why Are Sturgeons in Danger?

Despite their resilience over geological eras, sturgeons now face a range of threats, including habitat destruction, overfishing, and illegal trade.

Efforts to Protect the Sturgeon

Both international and national initiatives—such as the LIFE-Boat4Sturgeon project—are working to preserve these remarkable species through:

•Breeding and Reintroduction

Captive breeding programs raise juvenile sturgeons for release into their natural habitats.

•Habitat Protection and Restoration

Efforts to restore river systems, floodplains, and fish migration routes—such as fish ladders at dams—are vital for creating a suitable environment.

•Combating Illegal Fishing

Tighter controls and enforcement are essential to halt the illegal capture of sturgeons.

•Raising Awareness

Educating the public about the plight of sturgeons and the importance of their conservation is key to building widespread support for protective measures.