Alligator Gar
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Elasgosaura&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Elasgosaura (page does not exist)">Elasgosaura</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameAlligator Gar
Scientific NameAtractosteus spatula
Common NamesAlligator Gar, Gator Gar
FamilyLepisosteidae
OriginNorth America, Southern United States, Mexico, Mississippi River Basin
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)1000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)65-79
pH Range6.0-8.0
Compatible SpeciesOther very large, robust, and similarly aggressive fish (e.g., large Arowana, large Catfish species, other large gars)
Description
The Alligator Gar is one of the largest freshwater fish in North America, recognized by its distinctive alligator-like snout and formidable teeth. These ancient, predatory fish are ambush hunters, primarily feeding on other fish. Due to their immense size and predatory nature, they require extremely large aquariums or ponds and are only suitable for expert aquarists.
