What are paddlefish?
One of only two living species from an old group of ancient fishes, paddlefish can grow to six feet or more. This filter feeder normally lives in dark, algae-rich water, but its long snout contains many sensory cells that allow it to navigate and detect the presence of food. The snout may also help stabilize the fish while its mouth is wide open. Its tasty roe has earned the paddlefish the nickname Chattanooga Beluga.