Psephurus gladius, commonly known as the Chinese paddlefish, is a large freshwater species recognizable by its elongated snout and silvery body. It primarily inhabited the Yangtze River in China. Known for its size, it could grow over 7 meters in length. Unfortunately, this species is considered extinct due to overfishing and habitat degradation.

Psephurus gladius, commonly known as the Chinese paddlefish, was native to the Yangtze River Basin in China. It was also historically found in the Yellow River and the East China Sea.

The Chinese paddlefish inhabited large rivers and estuarine environments. It preferred freshwater and brackish waters, thriving in habitats with moderate to fast-flowing currents. The river systems where it was found were characterized by diverse aquatic environments, including deep channels and floodplain lakes.

As a large predatory fish, the Chinese paddlefish occupied a high trophic level within its ecosystem. It preyed on smaller fish and other aquatic organisms. The species played an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of its native river systems, contributing to the regulation of prey populations. Unfortunately, due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and river damming, the Chinese paddlefish is now considered extinct.