Spotted Gar - Tropical

This trade designation refers to Lepisosteus oculatus specimens sourced from the southernmost, warmer portions of its range — Gulf Coast drainages of the southern United States — which display greater tolerance for sustained warmer temperatures than northern populations. The Spotted Gar bears dense, round dark spots across its head, body, and fins. Like all lepisosteids it breathes air and is an ambush predator. The Tropical designation helps aquarists select specimens more appropriate for subtropical or warm temperate setups running at 22-28°C rather than the colder conditions typical of northern range fish. Care otherwise identical to the standard Spotted Gar.

Water: 18-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, moderately hard; surface access for air breathing essential; wide hardness tolerance. Tank: Minimum 1000L; very long aquarium; secure lid; sparse decor. Feeding: Carnivore; whole fish, prawns, earthworms; train onto floating carnivore pellets. Breeding: Spring spawner over vegetation; adhesive eggs toxic; not bred in captivity. Compatibility: Predatory toward smaller fish; suitable with very large robust species.