Researchers from the Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) have made a groundbreaking discovery by finding endangered shortnose sturgeon in the Connecticut River using environmental DNA. This marks the first scientific evidence of the species in the river across Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire. The investigation, led by UMass Amherst PhD candidate James Garner, was inspired by reports from local fishermen who would say they saw the 50-pound fish.
Shortnose sturgeon are known for their "prehistoric" origins dating back to the time of dinosaurs, and face challenges from habitat damage, dams, and overfishing. They are also a protected species and it's illegal to possess them if you happen to find one. The CRC worked in collaboration with many different organizations and researchers on this discovery and gives hope that they will be able to protect them for the future.
Source: Fox News