Due to overfishing (for its flesh, caviar, and isinglass), pollution, and dams, the sterlet has declined throughout its native range and is considered vulnerable by the IUCN.

[1] The sterlet's main source of food is benthic organisms; they commonly feed on crustaceans, worms, and insect larvae.

Sterlets require relatively large ponds with good water conditions, and may get entangled in plants such as blanketweed.

[citation needed] In Russia, it is held in high esteem on account of its excellent flesh, contributing also to the best kinds of caviar and isinglass.

[citation needed] The sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus in Linnaeus' classification) is the last of the five native sturgeon species inhabiting the Middle and Upper Danube River.