Fish Explorer
Discover the amazing aquatic life at Aqua Paradise
)Alligator Gar – Habitat, Diet, Lifespan & Fascinating Facts
Freshwater Predator
DescriptionThe alligator gar (Atractosteus spatula) is the largest species in the gar family and one of the largest freshwater fishes in North America. It is a euryhaline, ray-finned fish from the clade Ginglymodi, with origins dating back over 100 million years to the Early Cretaceous. With a torpedo-shaped body and tough ganoid scales, it resembles a floating log, making it an expert ambush predator. It has two rows of sharp teeth on the upper jaw and preys primarily on fish, but may also consume turtles, birds, small mammals, and even crabs.
Scientific NameAtractosteus spatula
HabitatFreshwater rivers, lakes, bayous, and occasionally brackish coastal waters in North and Central America
ConservationNot currently endangered but locally threatened due to habitat loss, overfishing, and pollution
Lifespan50–70 years in the wild (documented cases up to 94 years in captivity)
Fun Fact Alligator gars have ganoid scales that are so tough they were once used by Native Americans as arrowheads and breastplates.
DietCarnivorous; primarily fish (like carp, shad, buffalo), but also turtles, blue crabs, birds, and small mammals
Average SizeTypically 2–2.5 meters (6.5–8.2 feet); can weigh over 130 kg (300 lbs)
Location / Placement infoDisplayed in the Coastal Reef Exhibit, near the Ocean-View Tunnel
