Széchenyi István University contributes to the conservation of sterlet in the Danube region

A professional conference titled “The Sterlet Conservation Plan for Hungary” was recently held in Budapest at the headquarters of the National Directorate General for Water Management. The event brought together experts in water management, fisheries, and nature conservation to discuss the development of a long-term national strategy for the protection of this important native species.

The programme was organized with the active involvement of the Széchenyi István University, whose researchers play a key role in scientific research and professional coordination related to sturgeon conservation. The event was prepared in cooperation with WWF Central and Eastern Europe and several Hungarian and international partner organizations.

The sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) was at the centre of the conference discussions. Historically, six native sturgeon species inhabited the Danube, but today the sterlet is the only one that still maintains self-sustaining populations in the Hungarian sections of the Danube and the Tisza rivers. Sturgeons are among the most endangered fish groups worldwide, which makes their conservation a major environmental priority.

The conference also introduced the international “MonStur in the Danube” project, which aims to develop a harmonized cross-border monitoring system for sturgeon species across the Danube River Basin. Researchers from Széchenyi István University participate in the project, contributing scientific expertise to the development of monitoring methods and conservation strategies.

Participants discussed key elements of the future conservation strategy, including the identification of migration routes, the mapping of critical habitats, and the establishment of a long-term monitoring framework for sterlet populations.

The Budapest meeting represents an important step in a broader regional cooperation. Countries of the Upper and Middle Danube region are working toward a joint action plan for the conservation of native sturgeon species, strengthening international collaboration in the protection of the river’s biodiversity.