Shortnose Gar

Lepisosteus platostomus is distributed across the Mississippi River drainage from the Gulf Coast north into the Great Lakes region. Its comparatively short, broad snout is the key identifying feature that separates it from other gar species. A cool-water species, it requires seasonal temperature variation for long-term health in captivity.

Water: 15-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, soft to moderately hard; seasonal temperature fluctuation beneficial. Tank: Minimum 500L, long footprint, surface access for air breathing, robust construction. Feeding: Carnivore; live and frozen fish, large prawns, earthworms; will accept dead food on a string. Behaviour: Ambush predator; very slow and still between feeding episodes. Compatibility: Only with fish larger than its considerable gape; large catfish, large cichlids.