The pallid sturgeon is a prehistoric fish that has survived for millions of years—but now, it faces extinction due to river modification, pollution, and overharvesting. It is native to the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and has already lost much of its habitat.

Now, the Trump administration is proposing to roll back "look-alike" protections under the Endangered Species Act, a move that would make it harder to enforce wildlife trafficking laws and distinguish protected fish from similar-looking species. This rollback could weaken efforts to monitor and protect the pallid sturgeon throughout Missouri's rivers.

Conservationists and law enforcement agencies rely on these safeguards to do their jobs effectively. Removing them makes it easier for bad actors to exploit loopholes and puts already fragile species like the pallid sturgeon at even greater risk.

We urge the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Missouri Department of Conservation, and Missouri’s Congressional delegation to oppose this dangerous rollback. Let’s protect the pallid sturgeon and ensure Missouri’s rivers remain home to this ancient survivor.