Alligator Gar
Atractosteus spatula
What you need to keep a Alligator Gar
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pH
6.5–8.5
Temperature
15–30 °C
Max size
200 cm
Min tank
10000 L
Where to buy
Compare prices from SA aquarium shops listing Alligator Gar.
Avg. price
R8 000
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Alligator Gar is the largest species of gar and one of the largest freshwater fish in North America, capable of exceeding 2 metres in length and 140 kilograms in weight. This living fossil has remained virtually unchanged for over 100 million years, possessing a dual row of sharp teeth in its elongated snout and diamond-shaped ganoid scales that can deflect arrows. Despite its fearsome appearance, it is an ambush predator that spends most of its time motionless, lying in wait for prey.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Alligator Gar healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
A minimum 10000L aquarium suits Alligator Gar. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6.5–8.5 and 15–30°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Semi-aggressive. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Alligator Gar last so territories reset.
Breeding
Alligator Gar is rarely bred in captivity; most SA hobbyists buy from shops and breeders.
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.
Market intelligence
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
Price history — last 90 days
SA price range this month: R900–1500 · Average: R1300
This data is unique to FishHub
Demand by province
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