Alligator Gar
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:AlejandroLinaresGarcia" title="User:AlejandroLinaresGarcia">AlejandroLinaresGarcia</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameAlligator Gar
Scientific NameAtractosteus spatula
Common NamesAlligator Gar, Pejelagarto, Gatan, Gator Gar
FamilyLepisosteidae
OriginNorth America, Central America, Mississippi River Basin, Gulf Coast of the United States, Mexico
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)1000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)65-82
pH Range6.0-8.0
Compatible SpeciesOther large, aggressive fish, Large Cichlids (e.g., Oscar, Flowerhorn - if size difference is significant), Arowana, Stingrays (large species), Large Catfish (e.g., Pangasius, Redtail Catfish)
Description
The Alligator Gar is one of the largest freshwater fish in North America, characterized by its distinctive alligator-like snout and large, sharp teeth. It is a powerful ambush predator with a heavily armored body covered in ganoid scales. Due to its immense size and predatory nature, it requires specialized care and is only suitable for expert aquarists with access to very large, dedicated systems or public aquariums.
