Long-Nosed Gar, Longnose Garpike, Bonypike, Common Gar-Pike, Needlenose Gar, Billfish, Bill Gar, Fish Gar
Lepisosteus osseus
Description:
Body elongate and cylindrical, covered in tough ganoid scales. Snout narrow, flat, and very elongate. Mouth full of small sharp teeth. Back may appear brown, olive-green, or dark gray and fades to white near the belly. Dark spots and mottling more prominent near back end of body, but may be found along entire length of body. Dorsal and anal fin located close to base of tail. Dark spots on tail fin.
Average Maximum Size:
297 cm (117 in)
Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:
NA
Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:
NA
Range:
New Jersey to South Texas
Habitat:
Typically found in bodies of freshwater such as in vegetated rivers and lakes. Have been observed to tolerate brackish and saltwater in estuaries.
