Gars are ancient fish often misunderstood due to their prehistoric appearance. These aquatic creatures have long been a subject of curiosity, particularly regarding their perceived danger. This article clarifies common misconceptions about gars and provides accurate information on their behavior and biology.
Are Gars a Threat to Humans?
Gars are generally not dangerous to humans. Unprovoked attacks are extremely rare, with no confirmed cases of gars actively hunting or attacking people. Incidents typically occur accidentally, such as when anglers handle a caught fish.
Gar teeth, while sharp, are adapted for holding prey, not tearing large chunks of flesh. They primarily target fish they can swallow whole. If a gar bites a human, it usually results from mistaking a finger or toe for a smaller fish, or being startled in shallow water. Such bites are uncommon and typically not severe.
Understanding Gar Biology
Gars have elongated bodies, a long snout filled with needle-like teeth, and are covered in hard, diamond-shaped ganoid scales. These scales are particularly tough, resembling chain mail, and provide protective armor against predators. Historically, Indigenous peoples even used gar scales for arrowheads and breastplates due to their durability.
Their sharp, regularly replaced teeth are designed for puncturing and holding fish, their primary food source. While impressive, these teeth are delicate and would not effectively tear the flesh of large animals. Gar eggs (roe) are highly toxic to humans if ingested, serving as a natural defense mechanism to deter predators.
Gars in Their Natural Habitat
Gars are ambush predators, primarily feeding on other fish. They often lie motionless near the surface, blending with surroundings, waiting for unsuspecting prey. When a target is within reach, they lunge forward, striking sideways to capture it. Their diet typically consists of smaller fish, and they can help regulate populations of overpopulated species.
These fish inhabit fresh and brackish waters, preferring slow-moving rivers, lakes, bayous, and swamps. Gars are often observed basking near the water’s surface, appearing like logs. They can gulp air using a swim bladder, which acts like a primitive lung, allowing them to survive in waters with low oxygen levels unsuitable for other fish.
Coexisting with Gars
Interacting safely with gars involves respecting their space and exercising caution, particularly if fishing. Observing gars from a distance is advisable, as they are generally reclusive and prefer to avoid human contact. If fishing for gars, specific handling techniques are recommended due to their size, sharp teeth, and armored scales.
Anglers should use appropriate tools like rope lassos, large nets, or cradles to land these powerful fish. Use cut-resistant gloves and tools for hook removal, and avoid placing hands near their mouths or tails. Gars can also leave a slippery coating of slime, so care should be taken to prevent slips. While gars are not federally listed as threatened or endangered, some local populations have declined due to habitat loss and over-harvesting, leading to protection efforts in certain states.