Meet the Animals
Gary
Albino alligator gar · Atractosteus spatula
Very inquisitive, a ferocious eater, and super friendly once you get to know him. Gary is about 22 inches of glowing, prehistoric charm.
Feeding time
A ferocious eater
Minnows, shrimp, chopped squid and octopus are on the menu, plus the occasional goldfish when he's feeling fancy.
Living fossil
A true living fossil
Gar belong to a family line going back more than 100 million years. They can even gulp air from the surface, using a lung-like swim bladder.
Growing fast
Still a youngster
Young alligator gar are among the fastest-growing freshwater fish. Wild babies can reach 30 inches by their first winter, so Gary may still be a youngster.
Field notes
About alligator gar
- Alligator gar are native to the southern US and Gulf Coast, Texas rivers included.
- They're among North America's biggest freshwater fish. The record is 8 ft 5 in and 327 lb!
- Their family is a true “living fossil” line, going back more than 100 million years.
- They can gulp air from the surface, using a lung-like swim bladder.
- After their first few years, growth slows way down, and big gar can live for decades.
- “Albino” is a color form, not a separate species.
Cared for by
Braxton “Gilly” Gilbert
Gary is cared for daily by Gilly at Jefe and Friends (Gilly's Exotics LLC). Questions? Email gillysexotics@gmail.com.