RANGE Coastal southeast United States and into Mexico
HABITAT Slow-moving rivers, lakes, bayous, and bays
DIET Mainly fish; also snakes, turtles, birds, and small mammals
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.
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.
Their eggs are poisonous to humans.
Flood control measures have altered their spawning habitats, resulting in population declines. They have also been frequently overhunted.
