Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortnose gar (Lepisosteus platostomus) is a freshwater fish of the family Lepisosteidae that grows up to 88 cm.
Description
The shortnose gar is a gar (Lepisosteidae) from central North America. The species grows to about 80 cm and has an elongate, cylindrical body covered with hard, diamond-shaped ganoid scales and a short, broad snout full of sharp teeth. It inhabits quiet pools and backwaters of creeks and rivers, swamps, lakes and overflow areas, often near vegetation and submerged wood. With a vascularised swim bladder it can gulp air. As an ambush hunter it preys on other fishes. The sharp teeth can give a bite; the roe is toxic to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortnose gar?
The Shortnose gar has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Hard diamond-shaped ganoid scales; can gulp air; sharp teeth and poisonous roe.
Where does the Shortnose gar live?
The Shortnose gar lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central North America; quiet pools, rivers, lakes and floodplains.
How big does the Shortnose gar get?
The Shortnose gar grows to a maximum of about 88 cm. On average the species is around 63 cm.
Is the Shortnose gar dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortnose gar is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the sharp teeth can give a nasty bite; handle a caught specimen with care and keep fingers away from the mouth. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Shortnose gar edible?
The Shortnose gar is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lepisosteus
More from the family Lepisosteidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortnose gar?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortnose gar is one of 12,519 species in the app.