Alligator Gar
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:FakirNL" title="User:FakirNL">FakirNL</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameAlligator Gar
Scientific NameLepisosteus spatula
Common NamesAlligator Gar, Gator Gar
FamilyLepisosteidae
OriginNorth America, Southeastern United States, Mexico
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)2000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)65-82
pH Range6.0-8.0
Compatible SpeciesLarge Arowanas, Large Catfish (e.g., Redtail Catfish), Other large gars (with sufficient space)
Description
Alligator Gars are ancient, large predatory fish known for their distinctive alligator-like snout and diamond-shaped ganoid scales. They are apex predators in their native freshwater and brackish habitats, capable of growing to immense sizes. Due to their size and predatory nature, they require extremely large, specialized aquariums or ponds.
