Fin's Fish Guide
The Rocket gar (Ctenolucius beani) is a freshwater fish of the family Ctenoluciidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Description
The rocket gar is a pike-characin (Ctenoluciidae) from northwestern South America and Panama. The species has a very elongate, silvery body with a long, pointed, finely toothed snout and fins set far back, built for a fast lunge. It stays just below the water surface in rivers and streams. As an ambush hunter it darts forward suddenly to seize small fishes and large insects. It is a popular aquarium fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rocket gar?
The Rocket gar has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long pointed snout and fins set far back for a fast lunge; surface ambush predator.
Where does the Rocket gar live?
The Rocket gar lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Northwestern South America and Panama; rivers and streams.
How big does the Rocket gar get?
The Rocket gar grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Rocket gar dangerous to humans?
No, the Rocket gar is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rocket gar edible?
The Rocket gar is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenolucius
More from the family Ctenoluciidae
Want the complete picture on the Rocket gar?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rocket gar is one of 12,519 species in the app.