Alligator Gar

Alligator Gars (Atractosteus spatula) are among the largest freshwater fish in North America. They are found in the southern regions of the United States extending down to Mexico and inhabit primarily large, slow-moving rivers, freshwater lakes, swamps, estuaries, and bays. These fish can breathe both air and water and bear a resemblance to American alligators, having torpedo-shaped bodies armored with nearly impenetrable scales and broad snouts with long sharp teeth. Alligator Gars can grow up to 2.5 m (8 ft) in length and weigh as much as 140 kg (300 lb). The average length, however, is about 1.2 to 1.6 m (45-65 in) and weight is usually around 6 to 25 kg (13-55 lb). They are opportunistic ambush predators that feed primarily on fish, but will also hunt turtles and small mammals floating on the surface.