baikalensis

Baikalensis refers to a specific epithet used in scientific nomenclature, most notably for the species *Acipenser baikalensis*, commonly known as the Baikal sturgeon. This species is a critically endangered freshwater fish found exclusively in Lake Baikal and its tributary rivers in Siberia, Russia. It is characterized by its elongated body, bony scutes, and long snout. The Baikal sturgeon plays an important ecological role in its native habitat.

The term "baikalensis" itself is derived from "Baikal," referring to Lake Baikal, the world's largest freshwater lake by volume. Therefore, any organism designated with this epithet is likely associated with the Baikal region. While the sturgeon is the most prominent example, the epithet may appear in the scientific names of other organisms discovered or primarily found in this unique geographical area. Further research into specific species would be required to identify other instances of "baikalensis" in biological classification. The conservation status of *Acipenser baikalensis* highlights the vulnerability of endemic species in isolated ecosystems like Lake Baikal.