What is the river creature with the snout of an alligator, body of a fish and extremely sharp teeth? It’s an alligator gar (atractosteus spatula)! Alligator gar ancestors have been found fossilized in deposits over 100 million years old, making them not only one of the most ancient fishes, but also truly native Texans. Learn alongside hosts Abbey and Daemon why these fish have been feared for centuries, how they have been helpful to ancient communities and why they should be respected.

To learn more information about the sources and references for today’s episode, visit:

• Acta Biomaterialia, Alligator Gar Armored Fish Scales: https://www2.lbl.gov/ritchie/Library/PDF/2013_Yang_ActaBio_StructureAndFracture.pdf


• Environmental Monitor, Gar-Bage Fish No More: https://www.fondriest.com/news/gar-bage-fish-no-more-its-time-to-respect-gar.htm


• Florida Museum, Mummified Alligator Gar: https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/100years/mummified-alligator-gar/


• Missouri Department of Conservation, Alligator Gar: https://education.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/alligator-gar


• National Geographic, Alligator Gar: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/facts/alligator-gar


• Texas Parks & Wildlife, Alligator Gar: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/facts/alligator-gar


• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, All About Alligator Gar: https://www.fws.gov/story/all-about-alligator-gar

Hosted by the Witte Museum’s Abigail Jacks, Environmental Science Education Manager, and Daemon Piña, Health and Wellness Education Manager.

A companion to National Geographic’s Monster Fish: In Search of the Last River Giants exhibition, at the Witte for a limited time. This exhibition is developed and traveled by the National Geographic Society. Monster Fish: In Search of the Last River Giants is generously supported by the Will Smith Foundation, Mary Pat and Mike Bolner and the San Antonio River Authority.

For more information and to experience Monster Fish at the Witte, visit https://bit.ly/3PHcGu4.