Central Idea: The Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) discovered a rare type of fish known as “Alligator Gar” for the first time during the ongoing cleaning of famous Dal Lake in Srinagar.
Alligator Gar
| Information | |
| Scientific Name | Atractosteus spatula |
| Size and Weight | Up to 8 feet in length, over 300 pounds |
| Appearance | Long, narrow body; crocodile-like head; sharp teeth |
| Distribution | Central and North America, freshwater habitats |
| Fossil Record | Traces back to the Early Cretaceous, over 100 million years ago |
| Feeding Habits | Voracious predator, feeds on fish, turtles, waterfowl, etc. |
| Coloration | Brown or olive on upper body, lighter underside |
| Longevity | Can live for several decades |
| Conservation Status | Least Concerned (IUCN) |
