Florida Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus platyrhincus)
Florida Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus platyrhincus)
The Florida Spotted Gar is a sleek, prehistoric predator known for its elongated snout, armored scales, and distinctive spotted patterning across its body and fins. Native to slow-moving waters throughout Florida and parts of the southeastern United States, this species brings a true “ancient fish” presence to large aquariums. Agile and surface-oriented, the Florida Spotted Gar is best suited for experienced hobbyists with spacious setups.
Diet
Florida Spotted Gars are carnivorous ambush predators:
- Live or frozen fish (silversides, shiners)
- Shrimp and other meaty foods
- Can be trained onto frozen/thawed foods over time
⚠️ Avoid relying on feeder fish long-term due to disease risk.
Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 180–300 gallons
- Water Type: Freshwater
- Temperature: 68–82°F
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Setup: Long tank footprint preferred; minimal décor with open swimming space; tight-fitting lid required (excellent jumpers)
They are surface dwellers and require access to open air, as they can gulp atmospheric oxygen.
Size
- Current Sale Size: Typically 6–12 inches
Max Size
- Maximum Adult Size: 24–36 inches
Tank Mates
Tank mates must be chosen carefully due to their predatory nature:
- Compatible: Large, non-aggressive fish such as datnoids, silver dollars, gars, arowanas, and larger catfish
- Avoid: Small fish (will be eaten), overly aggressive species that may harass them
Best kept with fish too large to swallow and not overly territorial.
Temperament
Generally calm and non-aggressive toward similarly sized fish, but highly predatory. Spends most of its time cruising near the surface or lying in wait.
Original: $28.00
-65%$28.00
$9.80
Description
Florida Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus platyrhincus)
The Florida Spotted Gar is a sleek, prehistoric predator known for its elongated snout, armored scales, and distinctive spotted patterning across its body and fins. Native to slow-moving waters throughout Florida and parts of the southeastern United States, this species brings a true “ancient fish” presence to large aquariums. Agile and surface-oriented, the Florida Spotted Gar is best suited for experienced hobbyists with spacious setups.
Diet
Florida Spotted Gars are carnivorous ambush predators:
- Live or frozen fish (silversides, shiners)
- Shrimp and other meaty foods
- Can be trained onto frozen/thawed foods over time
⚠️ Avoid relying on feeder fish long-term due to disease risk.
Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 180–300 gallons
- Water Type: Freshwater
- Temperature: 68–82°F
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Setup: Long tank footprint preferred; minimal décor with open swimming space; tight-fitting lid required (excellent jumpers)
They are surface dwellers and require access to open air, as they can gulp atmospheric oxygen.
Size
- Current Sale Size: Typically 6–12 inches
Max Size
- Maximum Adult Size: 24–36 inches
Tank Mates
Tank mates must be chosen carefully due to their predatory nature:
- Compatible: Large, non-aggressive fish such as datnoids, silver dollars, gars, arowanas, and larger catfish
- Avoid: Small fish (will be eaten), overly aggressive species that may harass them
Best kept with fish too large to swallow and not overly territorial.
Temperament
Generally calm and non-aggressive toward similarly sized fish, but highly predatory. Spends most of its time cruising near the surface or lying in wait.
