Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted gar (Lepisosteus oculatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Lepisosteidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Eastern and central North America, in calm, clear pools and backwaters of lowland streams, rivers, oxbow lakes and swamps; sometimes enters brackish water.
Description
The spotted gar is an ancient, armoured predator (family Lepisosteidae) of North America. The species can grow to about 1.5 m and has an elongate, cylindrical body covered with hard, diamond-shaped scales and a long, toothed snout; dark spots mark the body and head. Adults live in quiet, clear pools and backwaters of lowland creeks, rivers, oxbow lakes and swamps, and sometimes enter brackish water. With a lung-like swim bladder they can gulp air. They are ambush predators hunting fishes and large invertebrates. The fish is harmless to handle, but the roe is poisonous to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted gar?
The Spotted gar has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Ancient, armoured predator with a long, toothed snout; can gulp air. The roe is poisonous to humans and animals.
Where does the Spotted gar live?
The Spotted gar lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern and central North America, in calm, clear pools and backwaters of lowland streams, rivers, oxbow lakes and swamps; sometimes enters brackish water.
How big does the Spotted gar get?
The Spotted gar grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Spotted gar dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted gar is harmless to humans. The fish itself is harmless to handle, but the roe (eggs) is poisonous and must not be eaten.
Is the Spotted gar edible?
The Spotted 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 Spotted gar?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted gar is one of 12,519 species in the app.