Paddlefish: Anatomy of a Living Fossil

The North American Paddlefish, now thought to be the only species of its kind after the presumed extinction of the Chinese Paddlefish, is a living fossil with complex and fascinating anatomical features. ERDC scientists are studying the strong, web-like structure of its rostrum, for example, in hopes of replicating it for use as material to protect military buildings, vehicles and soldiers from attack. Here, ERDC's Jan Jeffrey Hoover provides an in-depth look at Paddlefish anatomy. Paddlefish are native to the Mississippi River and its tributaries.
The specimen here was handled carefully and in accordance with institutionally approved animal care guidelines. During filming, it was immersed in river water at 2-3 minute intervals and, at the end of filming, was released unharmed. It can be seen at the end of the video swimming off away from the camera.
To learn more about the LMRCC's work, see lmrcc.org. Video produced by Bruce Reid, Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee, in partnership with ERDC's Fish Ecology Team.