Science Name: | Lepisosteus oculatus |
Subspecies - There are no recognized subspecies. However, they may hybridize with Florida gars.
Habitat - They prefer quiet, clear pools and backwaters of lowland creeks; small-to-large rivers, swamps, sloughs and ditches with an abundance of vegetation or debris. Spotted gars occasionally enter salt water. They also use an air bladder to breathe air in oxygen depleted water.
Spawning Habits - Spawning occurs in the spring in heavily vegetated sloughs. The adhesive eggs are dispersed in the water, attach to aquatic vegetation and hatch within six-to-eight days. Larvae adhere to vegetation after hatching by means of a disk-like organ on the tip of the snout while the fish develops. The organ subsequently is lost as the fish develops into an adult.
Feeding Habits - Young fish feed on zooplankton, small insect larvae and tiny fish larvae. Adult fish primarily feed on fish and crustaceans.
Age and Growth - Growth is very rapid during the first year. They reach a maximum length of up to four feet.
Sporting Qualities - They can be caught on a variety of artificial lures; however, dead minnows on a line fished just below the surface are quite effective. Wire leaders prevent the sharp teeth from cutting the line. Also refer to sporting qualities under longnose gar.
Eating Quality - Although edible, they are unpopular as food. The roe is highly toxic to humans, animals and birds.
Tips for Fishing