Alligator Gar

Atractosteus spatula

This ancient fish has existed for 100 million years. Unlike most of its close relatives, the alligator gar can breathe air and survive above water for up to two hours.

Class

Actinopterygii

Order

Lepisosteiformes

Family

Lepisosteidae

Range

Coastal southeast United States and into Mexico

Size

Length: Up to 10 ft
Weight: Up to 300 lbs

Habitat

Slow-moving rivers, lakes, bayous, and bays

Diet

Mainly fish; also snakes, turtles, birds, and small mammals

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Of the seven known gar species, the alligator gar is the largest.

It gets its name from its alligator-like snout and its double row of dagger sharp teeth.