The latest addition to the Toronto Zoo is being described by the attraction as “ancient” freshwater species. Lake sturgeon will now be on view at the Americas Pavilion, the zoo announced in a Facebook post. The freshwater fish is often referred to as a “living fossil,” because it has been swimming in Canada’s waters for more than 150 million years. “With their armour-like scutes, shark-like tail, and unique bottom-feeding mouth, they represent an ancient lineage that has survived since the time of the dinosaurs,” the post reads. “Yet despite their incredible history, many Ontarians have never seen one before.” While the ancient fish once populated the Great Lakes, lake sturgeon numbers have shrunk as a result of “habitat loss, barriers to migration, pollution, invasive species such as Sea Lamprey, and historical over-harvesting,” the zoo said. Known as Na’me in Anishinaabemowin, the language of many Great Lakes First Nations communities, the fish has bounced back from the risk of extinction it faced in the last century. Sturgeon have traditionally been considered a sacred relative and an important source of food for First Nations and Native American tribes, the zoo said. Through oral history, communities have used details like the size of poplar leaves, tiger swallowtail butterflies, and nighttime salamander calls to forecast the exact timing of the spring sturgeon spawn. “We hope to inspire curiosity, foster a deeper appreciation for Canada’s freshwater biodiversity, and encourage every member and guest to play a role in protecting the wild places these extraordinary fish call home,” the zoo said.
