Florida Gar
Lepisosteus platyrhincus
Florida Gar uses a specialized swim bladder to breathe air at the water’s surface.
Florida Gar uses a specialized swim bladder to breathe air at the water’s surface. Use proper fishing tools, support the body, avoid the teeth, and follow current harvest rules. Fishing licenses, methods, size rules, bag limits, and protected-area regulations apply where posted.
Habitat:
Freshwater Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds, Rivers and Springs, Canals and Ditches
Area / Range:
Central Florida, South Florida
Diet:
Small fish, shrimp, crayfish, and aquatic insects.
Behavior:
Often waits motionless before striking prey. Surfaces to gulp air when water contains little oxygen.
Day, Night
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Observe from a respectful distance in suitable Florida habitat.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Native freshwater fish
Safety Level:
Use Caution When Handling
Safety Information:
Use proper fishing tools, support the body, avoid the teeth, and follow current harvest rules.
Benefits to Property:
Helps balance freshwater fish and aquatic animal populations.
Property Concerns:
Sharp teeth, fishing hooks, and improper handling create injury risks.
Fun Fact:
Florida Gar uses a specialized swim bladder to breathe air at the water’s surface.
Wildlife Laws:
Fishing licenses, methods, size rules, bag limits, and protected-area regulations apply where posted.
Identification:
Long armored fish with an elongated tooth-filled snout, dark spots, and diamond-shaped scales.
Credits:
Facts: wildlife reference. Images: Wikimedia Commons.