The family Acipenseridae includes sturgeons and paddlefish, which are ancient fish species found primarily in freshwater and some marine environments. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, bony scutes instead of scales, and a distinctive snout. Sturgeons are known for their roe, which is processed into caviar, a luxury food product. Acipenseridae species are primarily bottom feeders, using their sensitive barbels to detect food in the substrate. Many species are threatened or endangered due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique fish and their habitats.