Alligator Gar
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/22147358@N04">Eddie Maloney</a> from North Las Vegas, USA (CC BY-SA 2.0)
NameAlligator Gar
Scientific NameAtractosteus spatula
Common NamesAlligator Gar, Gator Gar
FamilyLepisosteidae
OriginNorth America, Central America, Mississippi River Basin, Gulf Coast
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)2000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)68-79
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesLarge Arowana, Large Catfish (e.g., Redtail Catfish), Freshwater Stingrays, Other equally large and robust fish
Description
The Alligator Gar is a formidable freshwater predator known for its immense size, distinctive alligator-like snout, and armored body. It is an ancient species with a torpedo-shaped body covered in tough, diamond-shaped ganoid scales. This apex predator requires extremely large tank space and specialized care, making it suitable only for expert aquarists or public aquariums.
