Spotted Gar
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nizil_Shah" title="User:Nizil Shah">Nizil Shah</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameSpotted Gar
Scientific NameLepisosteus oculatus
Common NamesSpotted Gar, Florida Gar
FamilyLepisosteidae
OriginNorth America, Eastern United States, Great Lakes region, Mississippi River Basin
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)300
Max Size (Inches)48
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)65-79
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesLarge Cichlids, Arowana, Large Catfish, Freshwater Stingrays
Description
The Spotted Gar is a large, predatory freshwater fish characterized by its long, slender body, elongated snout, and distinctive dark spots on its body and fins, especially the caudal fin. It is an ancient species with ganoid scales, requiring a very large aquarium due to its potential adult size. This species is a formidable hunter, primarily feeding on other fish.
