1. a small sturgeon found in rivers of eastern Europe and western Asia, valued for its roe which is made into caviar

Examples

• The sterlet is prized for producing some of the finest caviar.
• Russian fishermen have harvested sterlet from the Volga River for centuries.
• The sterlet is smaller than other sturgeon species.
• Conservation efforts aim to protect sterlet populations from overfishing.
• Sterlet caviar is considered a delicacy in fine dining.
• The sterlet’s natural habitat includes the Danube and Don rivers.