Alligator Gar
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/28567825@N03">Cliff</a> from Arlington, Virginia, USA (CC BY 2.0)
NameAlligator Gar
Scientific NameAtractosteus spatula
Common NamesAlligator Gar
FamilyLepisosteidae
OriginNorth America, Southeastern United States, Mississippi River Basin, Ohio River, Gulf of Mexico
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)2000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater, Brackish
Temperature Range (°F)68-82
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesOther large gars (with caution), Large, robust, and fast-moving fish too big to be eaten
Description
The Alligator Gar is a prehistoric-looking fish known for its immense size and predatory nature. Native to large rivers, lakes, and bayous of the southeastern United States, it can tolerate both freshwater and brackish conditions. Due to its potential to grow over 10 feet long, it requires an extremely large, specialized aquarium or pond environment.
