Gar fish are some of the most fascinating yet challenging species you can keep in an aquarium. These prehistoric predators have existed for millions of years and are known for their elongated bodies, sharp teeth, and ability to breathe atmospheric oxygen. However, keeping a gar in captivity is not for the faint-hearted, as they require massive tanks, specialized care, and a well-planned diet. If you are willing to take on the challenge, here are the top seven gar species that could make an incredible yet demanding addition to your aquarium.

1. Cuban Gar (Atractosteus Tristoechus)

The Cuban gar is one of the rarest and most endangered gar species, found only in Cuba and the Isle of Youth. These fish can grow up to 1.8 meters (71 inches) and thrive in large lakes, rivers, and slow-moving tributaries. They prefer water temperatures between 18–23°C (64–73°F) and a pH range of 5.5 to 8.0. In the wild, their diet consists mainly of fish, but they also consume amphibians and large insects. Due to their endangered status, Cuban gars are incredibly hard to find in the aquarium trade. 

2. Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus Oculatus)

Spotted gars are native to the United States and northern Mexico and are more adaptable compared to other gar species. They inhabit lakes, rivers, and backwaters, growing to about 1.25 meters (50 inches) in length. Their ideal water conditions range from 12–20°C (54–68°F) with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. These fish are ambush predators, feeding primarily on smaller fish and crustaceans. Spotted gars can be trained to eat frozen or prepared foods, though wild specimens may take time to adapt.

3. Alligator Gar (Atractosteus Spatula) – The Giant Of The Group

The alligator gar is the largest and most well-known species, reaching lengths of over 3 meters (118 inches). Found in the southeastern United States and parts of Mexico, these fish prefer slow-moving waters. Their preferred temperature range is 11–23°C (52–73°F), with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. Unlike their name suggests, alligator gars do not attack humans, but their eggs are highly toxic if consumed. Due to their massive size and carnivorous diet, they need enormous tanks or private ponds to thrive. 

4. Longnose Gar (Lepisosteus Osseus)

As the most widely distributed gar species, longnose gars are found across North and Central America. Fossil records show that they once lived in Africa, Asia, and Europe as well. They can grow up to 2 meters (79 inches) and require cool water temperatures ranging from 12–20°C (54–68°F) with a pH of 7.0 to 8.0. Their long, slender snout allows them to hunt small fish like shad and sunfish, and they are most active at night. With their thick, armor-like scales, they have few natural predators aside from alligators.

5. Shortnose Gar (Lepisosteus Platostomus)

The shortnose gar is the smallest species, reaching about 88 cm (35 inches) in length. Found in the Mississippi River Basin and Great Lakes region, they prefer calm waters with submerged logs and vegetation. Their temperature requirements are between 10–18°C (50–64°F), with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. In the wild, they feed on fish, amphibians, and crustaceans, but in captivity, they accept meaty foods such as shrimp and whitefish. Due to their smaller size, they are more manageable than other gars, but they still require a very large aquarium.

6. Florida Gar (Lepisosteus Platyrhincus)

As its name suggests, the Florida gar is native to Florida and parts of Georgia, often inhabiting canals, rivers, and lakes. Closely related to the spotted gar, it can be difficult to distinguish between the two. They grow up to 86 cm (34 inches) and prefer warmer temperatures of 22–26°C (72–79°F), with a pH of 7.0 to 7.5. Florida gars are commonly sold in the aquarium trade but are often mislabeled as spotted gars. They are effective ambush predators, mimicking logs as they drift along the surface before striking their prey. 

7. Tropical Gar (Atractosteus Tropicus)

The tropical gar is found in Central America and the Caribbean, often in slow-moving waters such as lakes and backwaters. They grow up to 1.25 meters (50 inches) and thrive in temperatures ranging from 22–28°C (72–82°F), with a pH of 6.0 to 8.5. Their diet primarily consists of fish, with cichlids making up a large portion of their meals, though they also consume insects and amphibians. Despite their size, tropical gars are less common in the aquarium trade, and their need for warm, stable water makes them more challenging to keep.

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