Gar
| Common name | Taxonomy | Picture | Size | Tank Type | Care Level | Remarks | Temp Range | Acceptable pH | Recommended water hardness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spotted Gar | Lepisosteus oculatus | 70 cm - 300 cm (27.5 – 118 in) | Large | Easy/Intermediate | One species of the gars, the Alligator gar (Atractosteus spatula) can attain an astounding length of 3m in the wild. On average, gars can attain a length of not less than 70 cm in captivity. They are aggressive fish by nature, however, they are also frightened easily.
These fish are generally piscivorous in the wild, but will take a variety of meaty foods in captivity. Therefore, a strong filtration system must be ensured for a healthy gar tank. Housing a 6-inch gar may require at least a 50 US gallons (190 L) tank with width of 12 inches. As the gar grows, it must be moved to a larger tank. The tank length to house a sub-adult gar should be at least 72 inches, but longer is even better. The width of the tank should not be less than 36 inches. (otherwise, the gar may feel uncomfortable making turns while it swims) A minimum of 24 inches of water depth will suit the gar well. Gars are strong jumpers, hence the tank lid should be weighted down. Gars are hardy fish. They have the ability to breathe atmosphere air by means of vascularised gas bladder that act as lung. They are generally peaceful, usually keeping to themselves and not disturbing others. Hence, if space allows, they can be kept in a group. Large gars are capable of inflicting a painful wound. If possible, try not to handle them with bare hands. Always use a net. |
Read more about this topic: List Of Freshwater Aquarium Fish Species
Famous quotes containing the word gar:
“‘O fy gar ride, and fy gar rin,
And haste ye find these traitors again;
For she’s be burnt and he’s be slain,
The wearifu’ gaberlunzie man.’”
—Unknown. The Gaberlunzie Man (l. 49–52)