Huso huso, commonly known as the Beluga sturgeon, is native to the Caspian and Black Sea basins. It is one of the largest freshwater fish, reaching lengths of over 20 feet. The species is known for producing high-value caviar. They have elongated bodies, smooth skin, and a distinctive snout.

Huso huso, commonly known as the Beluga sturgeon, is native to the Caspian Sea, Black Sea, and their associated river systems. These include the Volga, Danube, Dniester, Dnieper, and Ural rivers. The species is primarily found in Eastern Europe and Western Asia, with its range extending into parts of Central Europe.

Beluga sturgeons inhabit large river systems and estuaries, thriving in deep waters with moderate to strong currents. They require freshwater habitats for spawning, typically migrating to riverbeds with gravel or sandy substrates. The species is adapted to both brackish and freshwater environments, often found in the transitional zones between rivers and seas.

As an anadromous fish, Huso huso plays a critical role in its ecosystem by migrating between marine and freshwater environments for breeding. It is a top predator, feeding on a variety of fish and invertebrates. The species is known for its long lifespan and delayed maturity, contributing to its vulnerability and the need for specific environmental conditions to support its complex life cycle.