Fin's Fish Guide
The Alligator gar (Tylosurus gavialoides) is a brackish-water fish of the family Belonidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Description
The stout longtom is a large needlefish (Belonidae) from the southwestern Pacific off the coast of Australia. The species grows to about 75 cm and has a very elongate, silvery body with long, thin jaws full of small, sharp teeth that project forward like a beak. It is a coastal species occurring near coral reefs and in estuaries, where it hunts small fishes at the surface. It is oviparous; the eggs attach to objects in the water by tendrils. When disturbed the fish can leap from the water and inflict a deep puncture wound with its pointed beak.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Alligator gar?
The Alligator gar has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long beak-like jaws full of sharp small teeth; can leap out of the water and impale people.
Where does the Alligator gar live?
The Alligator gar lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Southwest Pacific off Australia; coastal waters, reefs and estuaries.
How big does the Alligator gar get?
The Alligator gar grows to a maximum of about 75 cm.
Is the Alligator gar dangerous to humans?
No, the Alligator gar is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but this needlefish can leap from the water when disturbed and inflict a deep puncture wound with its sharp, pointed beak. Clean the wound, check for embedded fragments and seek medical care if it is deep or becomes infected.
Is the Alligator gar edible?
The Alligator gar is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tylosurus
More from the family Belonidae
Want the complete picture on the Alligator gar?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Alligator gar is one of 12,519 species in the app.