Alligator gar are among the longest-lived freshwater fish in North America. Studies have shown that alligator gar in captivity can live for at least 30 years and wild alligator gar have been known to reach an age of 50 years or more. In fact the oldest known alligator gar was a fish that was caught in the wild in 2011 and was estimated to be at least 100 years old!
While alligator gar are long-lived fish they are not immune to the effects of age. Just like any other living creature alligator gar will eventually start to show signs of wear and tear as they get older. Their skin will become less elastic their fins will become frayed and their eyesight will start to deteriorate. However even in their old age alligator gar are still incredibly powerful predators that are more than capable of taking down prey much larger than themselves.
If you’re lucky enough to have an alligator gar in your aquarium you can expect it to be a part of your life for many years to come. Just be sure to provide it with the proper care and attention that it needs to thrive and you’ll be able to enjoy watching it grow and change over the years.
How long do American alligator gar typically live?
Up to 50 years
How long do Atractosteus spatula alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Atractosteus tristoechus alligator gar typically live?
Up to 50 years
How long do Florida alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Northern alligator gar typically live?
Up to 50 years
How long do Spotted alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Texas alligator gar typically live?
Up to 50 years
How long do Tropical alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Belize alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Costa Rican alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Cuban alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Guatemalan alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Honduras alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Mexican alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
How long do Nicaraguan alligator gar typically live?
Up to 30 years
