Mass Release of Sturgeon into the Kura River

On November 19, Azerbaijan Fish Farm (AFF), a subsidiary of Lu-Mun Holding, carried out a mass release of sturgeon into the Kura River as part of its ongoing efforts to conserve the critically endangered Caspian sturgeon, an endemic species.

The sturgeon release, now an integral part of Azerbaijan Fish Farm’s regular environmental conservation practices, took place in Neftchala and was broadcast live at the Lu-Mun Holding booth (G14) in the Green Zone at COP 29. This event drew global attention to the importance of sturgeon conservation and ecosystem restoration. Additionally, juvenile Caspian salmon, which are being reintroduced by AFF, were also released into the Caspian Sea.

Among the guests who visited the Lu-Mun Holding booth was Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, founder and head of the IDEA Public Union, under whose leadership numerous environmental projects are being implemented.

At COP 29, Lu-Mun Holding and Azerbaijan Fish Farm (AFF) presented their new project, “Cure the Kura,” aimed at restoring the population of critically endangered Caspian sturgeon in the Caspian Sea and the Kura River.

This collaborative project involves Lu-Mun Holding’s subsidiary, Azerbaijan Fish Farm, the Swedish Anglers Association (SAA), and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). Its primary goal is to conserve the endemic, critically endangered Caspian sturgeon in the Caspian Sea and Kura River by utilizing modern technologies to monitor and improve the survival rates of both farmed and wild fish.

The project focuses on saving the Caspian sturgeon population through improved release programs, enhanced fish survival rates, elimination of causes of mortality, and the restoration of the Caspian Sea and Kura River ecosystems. Special attention is given to the effective management of water resources, as well as the conservation of coastal forests and spawning grounds.

The Caspian Sea and Kura River represent a key ecosystem with unique biodiversity that is under serious pressure from climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction.

Restoring the sturgeon population and improving the environmental health of the Kura River is an example of conservation solutions that contribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation. Moreover, the preservation of these species is of great cultural significance to Azerbaijan, as sturgeon play a vital role in the country’s traditional culture.

Further information on the “Cure the Kura” project is available on the official website: curethekura.aff.az.

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