Shortnose Gar - Lepisosteus platostomus

🐟 Shortnose Gar – (Lepisosteus platostomus) – Ancient Freshwater Predator for Sale

The Shortnose Gar (Lepisosteus platostomus) is one of North America’s prehistoric freshwater fish, boasting an elongated body, armor-like ganoid scales, and a shorter, blunt snout compared to other gar species. Native to large rivers and backwaters of the Mississippi River Basin, this species is a skilled ambush predator that has remained largely unchanged for millions of years.

With its unique appearance, slow and deliberate swimming style, and impressive durability, the Shortnose Gar is a fascinating species for experienced aquarists with large tanks or indoor ponds.

🔎 Quick Facts – Shortnose Gar (Lepisosteus platostomus)

• 📛 Common Names: Shortnose Gar
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Lepisosteus platostomus
• 🌍 Origin: North America – Mississippi River Basin, Missouri River, Ohio River
• 🎨 Appearance: Long, cylindrical body covered in hard diamond-shaped scales; short, broad snout; olive-brown with darker spotting
• 📏 Max Size: 24–36 inches (61–91 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Occasionally available in the aquarium trade

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Predatory – will eat any fish small enough to fit in its mouth
• 🌊 Slow-moving, often hovering motionless before striking
• 🪵 Best kept alone or with large, robust tankmates
• 🛡 Hardy and tolerant of varying water conditions

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 300+ gallons (indoor pond preferred)
• 🌊 Strong filtration and low to moderate water flow
• 🪵 Open swimming areas with minimal obstruction
• 💡 Moderate lighting to mimic natural environment

💧 Water Parameters – Shortnose Gar Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–8.0
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to hard water

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous

• 🐟 Fresh or frozen fish (silversides, smelt)
• 🦐 Shrimp and crustaceans
• 🪱 Earthworms
• 🚫 Avoid feeder fish to reduce disease risk

📋 Shortnose Gar Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Shortnose Gar is a living fossil that offers aquarists the chance to keep a true relic of evolutionary history—best suited for large, well-maintained aquariums or indoor ponds where its size and behavior can be fully appreciated.