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As its name implies, the longnose gar sports a long, narrow snout armed with many sharp teeth for catching smaller fish.  To keep itself from becoming prey, the gar is protected by hard, diamond-shaped scales.

longnose gar

Did You Know?

Another remarkable feature is the gar’s ability to breathe air when the aquatic oxygen supply is low.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Lepisosteus osseus

Range:
North America; east of the Mississippi River

Habitat:
Rivers, lakes, reservoirs and estuaries

Length:
24-72 inches

Lifespan:
17-20 years

Zoo Location:
Otto M. Budig Manatee Springs

Diet:
Small fish