Alligator Gar
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Masruby&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Masruby (page does not exist)">Masruby</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
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)2000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)60-75
pH Range6.5-8.0
Description
The Alligator Gar is an ancient, large, predatory fish characterized by its alligator-like snout and diamond-shaped ganoid scales. They are apex predators in their native habitats, capable of reaching immense sizes. Due to their size and predatory nature, they are only suitable for expert aquarists with very large, specialized setups, often requiring custom-built ponds or public aquarium exhibits.
