Alligator Gar Fish

alligator gar fish, originally uploaded by WatchMeBurnLikeAShootingStar.

The Alligator Gar, Gator Gar, or Atractosteus spatula, is a primitive ray-finned fish. Unlike other Gars, the mature Alligator Gar possesses a dual row of large teeth in the upper jaw. These remarkably Alligator-like teeth, along with its snout, give it its name. The dorsal surface of the Alligator Gar is a brown or olive-color, while the ventral surface tends to be a lighter color. Their scales are diamond-shaped and interlocking (ganoid) and are sometimes used by Native Americans for jewelry.

The Alligator Gar is capable of breathing air and can survive up to two hours above water.