Alligator Gar
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/69683857@N05">Bettina Arrigoni</a> (CC BY 2.0)
NameAlligator Gar
Scientific NameAtractosteus spatula
Common NamesAlligator Gar, Gator Gar
FamilyLepisosteidae
OriginNorth America, Southern United States, Mexico
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)5000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)65-80
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesOther large, robust predatory fish that cannot be eaten, Large Catfish (e.g., Redtail Catfish, Tiger Shovelnose Catfish), Arowanas (if size compatible)
Description
The Alligator Gar is a formidable, ancient predatory fish known for its large size and distinctive alligator-like snout. They are ambush predators, primarily feeding on other fish, and can grow to immense lengths, making them unsuitable for most home aquariums. Their care requires extremely large, specialized setups, often only found in public aquariums or dedicated outdoor ponds.
