Alligator Gar
Image: Photo by Greg Hume (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameAlligator Gar
Scientific NameAtractosteus spatula
Common NamesAlligator Gar, Gator Gar
FamilyLepisosteidae
OriginNorth America, Southeastern United States, Mexico, Mississippi River Basin, Gulf Coast
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)2000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)68-78
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesLarge Arowana, Redtail Catfish, Pangasius Catfish, Other large gars, Large Peacock Bass, Other very large, robust fish too big to be eaten
Description
The Alligator Gar is a prehistoric-looking fish known for its immense size and distinctive alligator-like snout filled with sharp teeth. This powerful ambush predator is native to the slow-moving rivers and brackish waters of the southeastern United States and Mexico. Due to its potential to grow over 10 feet long, it is only suitable for public aquariums or extremely large, specialized private setups.
