As described in the final report, the observation and field observations of the leaping abilities of various sturgeon species suggest that sturgeon species Vmax ability
might be under rated. For example, reports of adult gulf sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus desotoi) leaping 2 m or more above the water are common and adult white sturgeon
(Acipenser transmontanus) is well known to show explosive leaping behaviour when hooked by fisherman. The leaping ability demonstrated by sturgeon species and the observations of shovelnose sturgeon (a relatively small species of sturgeon) from this research suggests that sturgeon may be very capable of attaining high sprint swimming speeds when motivated.

Most fish demonstrate multiple peaks in swimming velocity during their swim. It is noteworthy that the peak swimming velocities of shovelnose sturgeon were only maintained for a fraction of a second before the fish returned to a slower swim speed. This pattern in quick burst swimming followed by slower swimming and gliding behaviour might reflect how sturgeon negotiate passage structures when highly motivated, illustrating the tendency to burst and then hold position on the substrate. The lack of difference in swimming capabilities at different temperatures is similar to that of lake sturgeon at burst swimming speeds. Temperature does not appear to have the same detectable effect on burst swimming as it has on the prolonged and sustained swims. The results of this study will provide additional data to support design and analysis of fish passage projects for shovelnose sturgeon and other sturgeon species.