Alligator gar in the Trinity River.Photo byD magazine

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The alligator gar is known for its exceptional size and prehistoric appearance, comparing creatures better suited to coexist with dinosaurs rather than common fish. However, its distinctiveness goes above its outer appearance.

Among the different fish species in Texas waterways, waterholes, and rivers, the alligator gar stands out as a distinctive instance, varying from other gar species located in the region, longnose, and spotted species are unique.

Why they are Important

Alligator gar are an important part of Texas fisheries. Their ancestors have been found in Permian deposits as fossils from 215 million years ago, making them not only one of the most ancient fishes but also truly native Texans.

The alligator gar holds the honor of being the largest and most stable freshwater species in our state. Current records show captures of specimens exceeding 8 feet in length and boasting an estimated age of up to 60 years.

Its amazing size and excellent longevity, combined with its primal traits and deep-rooted past, elevate the alligator gar to a key role in Texas’ ecological diversity. Also, it is highly coveted by recreational anglers for its thrill and reputation as a prized catch.

The alligator gar is a key player in maintaining the delicate balance of Texas' aquatic ecosystems. Similar to the role of sharks in marine environments, this species contributes greatly to regulating the populations of diverse other aquatic species.

Alligator gar primarily prey on fish like carp, and shad, with periodic consumption of game fishes such as bass and crappie. Interestingly, the presence of healthy alligator gar populations can be observed in some of Texas's prominent bass fisheries like Sam Rayburn, Toledo Bend, Falcon, Amistad, and Choke Canyon reservoirs.

Where Alligator Gar lives in Texas

There is a common misunderstanding that alligator gar can be easily seen in different bodies of water across Texas, leading people to mistake every gar they face as an alligator gar. The truth, nonetheless, is quite different, as Texas is home to four distinct species of gar. Many of the gar people encounter in the wild are not alligator gar, but rather one of the other more prevailing and widely spread species such as the longnose or spotted gar.

Alligator gar in Texas can be located in various regions across the state. In the northern part, they inhabit areas such as the Red River, which includes Lake Texoma, the upper Trinity River, and the Sulfur River.

Moving towards southwest Texas, these intriguing fish can be spotted in the middle and lower parts of the Rio Grande, encompassing lakes Falcon and Amistad. In East Texas, they can be found in water bodies like Cypress Creek, the Sabine River, Neches River, Angelina River, and Trinity River, as well as in mainstem reservoirs like Caddo Lake, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Toledo Bend Reservoir, and Lake Livingston. Additionally, some remnants of these populations can still be observed in off-channel reservoirs, such as Richland Chambers, dating back to their presence before impoundment.

References

Texas Park and Wild Life

Texas Park and Wild Life