Why is Caspian sturgeon important to Azerbaijan’s fisheries?

Caspian sturgeon are of significant importance to Azerbaijan’s fisheries primarily because their roe is processed into caviar, which is an internationally renowned product and a distinctive traditional export for the country.12

The Caspian Sea has long been famous for its sturgeon, accounting for the vast majority of the global catch. However, the industry faces ongoing challenges; sturgeon stocks have been depleted due to water pollution in the Caspian Sea and the historical loss of favorable spawning grounds. In response to these environmental pressures and declining populations, various conservation measures have been implemented, including the introduction of aquaculture and the prohibition of sturgeon fishing in the open sea.31