136 million years later—Lake sturgeon at Shedd Aquarium predate “Jurassic World” dinos

At the Shedd Aquarium, visitors can encounter the lake sturgeon, a species that predates even the dinosaurs featured in the new film "Jurassic World Rebirth." Known as a living fossil, the lake sturgeon is native to the Great Lakes and has remained largely unchanged for roughly 136 million years—Shedd Aquarium announced in a press release—making it a living testament to Earth's ancient past. For comparison, the aquarium states that the Tyrannosaurus rex existed around 67 million years ago. 

This prehistoric fish features a torpedo-shaped body covered in bony plates rather than scales, offering a tangible link to the past. As reported by the aquarium, visitors can interact directly with these ancient creatures in the Sturgeon Touch habitat, part of the At Home on the Great Lakes exhibit. According to the press release, the fish use their four barbels to detect the tastiest morsels on the river and lake beds—primarily insects, crustaceans, small clams, and snails.

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Conservation efforts at Shedd

The lake sturgeon holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest fish in local freshwater habitats, though it is classified as an endangered species in Illinois. According to Shedd Aquarium, overfishing and barriers like dams that obstruct their natural spawning migrations pose significant threats to the species' survival. The aquarium is also home to other sturgeon species, including the Atlantic and Pallid sturgeons, which contribute to their broader conservation efforts.

For those curious about these extraordinary fish and their peers in the category of living fossils, visiting Shedd Aquarium offers a unique educational opportunity. The institution serves as both a sanctuary and a spotlight for these incredible remnants of prehistoric times, offering insights into their continued relevance and pressing conservation needs.