Lepisosteus platyrhincus DeKay, 1842
Florida gar
photo by van Uitert, K.

Family:  Lepisosteidae (Gars)
Max. size:  132 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 9,610.0 g
Environment:  demersal; freshwater
Distribution:  North America: USA from Savannah River drainage, Georgia to Ocklockonee River drainage, Florida and Georgia; throughout the peninsular Florida.
Diagnosis:  Numerous dark spots on the anterior part of its body and head. Lacks plates on ventral surface of the isthmus, wider snout and wider lower jaws. Dark in coloration (Ref. 37032).
Biology:  Adults occur in sluggish mud or sand-bottomed pools of quiet lowland streams and lakes. Usually found near vegetation.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 01 March 2012 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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