Alligator Gar
Image: Duane Raver, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Public domain)
NameAlligator Gar
Scientific NameAtractosteus spatula
Common NamesAlligator 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)60-80
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesRedtail Catfish, Tiger Shovelnose Catfish, Silver Arowana, Florida Gar, Spotted Gar
Description
The Alligator Gar is a massive, ancient predatory fish characterized by its long, alligator-like snout and formidable teeth. It is one of the largest freshwater fish in North America, known for its robust, diamond-shaped ganoid scales. Due to its immense size and predatory nature, it is strictly for expert aquarists with extremely large, specialized setups.
