New York state is now a defendant in a lawsuit accusing it, along with New Jersey and Delaware, of failing to protect the endangered Atlantic sturgeon.

The Hudson Riverkeeper and Delaware Riverkeeper Network filed the lawsuit, alleging the states have not obtained the necessary permits, and have allowed the endangered fish to be caught in fishing nets.

Officials warn that fewer than 250 spawning adults remain in the Delaware River, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court, seeks to force the states to take immediate action to protect the Atlantic sturgeon. This includes requiring them to obtain the necessary permits and implement measures to prevent the fish from being caught in fishing nets.

The Atlantic sturgeon is listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act.