Other names: Longnose garpike , Billy gar
The Longnose Gar, Lepisosteus osseus, is a freshwater fish native to North and Central America. Known for its elongated snout and sharp teeth, this species thrives in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and backwaters. It is a voracious predator, feeding primarily on fish and crustaceans. The Longnose Gar is a popular game fish, particularly in the southern United States, and can also be found in public aquariums due to its distinctive appearance.
Other names
Longnose garpike , Billy gar
Length
~91" (max 180)
Weight
~9" (max 25)
Water
Fresh, brackish
Water Temp
15-20° F
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Longnose Gar inhabit slow-moving rivers, lakes, and backwaters, often near aquatic vegetation
They prefer environments with clear, calm water and are frequently found in sluggish pools or oxbows
This species can also tolerate brackish water but generally stays in freshwater habitats
Their diet mainly consists of fish and crustaceans, making them effective ambush predators
Spawning occurs in late spring, with adults migrating to shallow, vegetated areas of rivers or lakes
Females lay adhesive eggs on submerged vegetation or debris, which hatch into larvae that remain near the bottom
Juveniles stay in shallow, protected areas until they are large enough to fend for themselves
Adult gar typically return to deeper waters post-spawning, where they continue their predatory habits
