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The alligator gar ( Atractosteus spatula) is a euryhaline ray-finned fish in the clade Ginglymodi of the infraclass Holostei / hoʊˈlɒstiaɪ /, being most closely related to the bowfins. It is the largest species in the gar family (Lepisosteidae), and is among the largest freshwater fish in North America.
The alligator gar ( Atractosteus spatula) is a euryhaline ray-finned fish in the clade Ginglymodi of the infraclass Holostei, being most closely related to the bowfins. It is the largest species in the gar family (Lepisosteidae), and is among the largest freshwater fish in North America.
Description of the Alligator Gar. This species is one of the largest freshwater fish in North America, surpassed only by the white sturgeon. They are impressive creatures, with torpedo-shaped bodies, broad snouts, and sharp teeth. Adults typically measure about 5 or 6 ft. long, and weigh about 150 lbs. or so.
Alligator gar, facts and photos. The largest of all the gars, this megafish, photographed at the Tennessee Aquarium, earns its name with a wide, crocodilian head and rows of sharp teeth ...
Oct 1, 2021 · The alligator gar is the largest gar species alive today. As far as I know, it’s the largest even compared to fossil gars. They can easily get up to eight feet long; maybe even close to 10 feet historically, but we don’t have great records of that.
May 27, 2024 · The alligator gar is the giant heavyweight fish of its native environment. Measuring up to 10 feet and 350 pounds, it is the largest of all the gar species and one of the biggest freshwater fishes anywhere in North America. The world record for a catch was set at 327 pounds in 2011.
Feb 16, 2022 · The alligator gar is a snaggle-toothed fish longer than a park bench and heavier than a mountain lion. Bony scales covering its body make it look like an armored dinosaur, and for good reason:...
Alligator gars are unique and visually striking fish. They can grow up to 10 feet long (3 meters) and weigh as much as 327 pounds (148 kilograms), though averages are generally around 6.5 feet (2 meters) and 100 pounds (45 kilograms). They are renowned for their wide alligator-like snouts and sharp teeth set in double rows.
Alligator Gar are known as an important fish in the waters they swim, because they help to keep their ecosystem in balance. They are an effective keystone species, but at one time they were seen as a nuisance fish, and a threat to sport fish or food stock that make up part of the human diet.
Alligator gar are long, slender fish with bony, diamond-shaped scales. They are distinguished from other gar by a heavier body and a relatively shorter, broader snout filled with two rows of canine-like teeth.
