Introduction
New London, Connecticut, has been a popular spot for Atlantic sturgeon spawning for decades. However, with the increasing development in the area and changes in water quality, many people are questioning whether these majestic fish are still spawning in the region. In this article, we will delve into this topic and explore the current situation.
What are Atlantic Sturgeons
Atlantic sturgeons are large prehistoric fish that are known for their unique appearance – they have long snouts and rows of bony plates on their bodies. They were once abundant in the waters along the eastern coast of North America and were an important part of the local ecosystem. However, due to overfishing and habitat loss, their population has drastically declined over the last few decades.
Spawning Habits
The Atlantic sturgeon is an anadromous fish species that migrates from saltwater to freshwater rivers to spawn. The Connecticut River is one such river where they have historically spawned. The females lay their eggs on rocky bottoms in shallow areas of rivers during late spring or early summer.
The Situation in New London
Historically, New London has been a popular spot for Atlantic sturgeon spawning due to its location near the mouth of the Thames River which connects to Long Island Sound. However, with increasing pollution from industrial waste and sewage and habitat loss due to development along its banks, there have been concerns about whether these fish still spawn here.
Despite these concerns, there have been recent reports of sightings of adult sturgeons and juveniles in nearby waters which indicate that they may still be spawning in New London.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there have been concerns about whether Atlantic sturgeons are still spawning in New London due to increasing pollution and habitat loss, recent sightings of these fish suggest that they may still be spawning in nearby waters. However, it is important to continue monitoring the situation and taking steps to protect their habitat to ensure their continued survival.