Reproduction and Life Cycle
Shortnose gar typically spawn in the spring during April, May and June, when water temperatures are between 16 and 21 °C (61 and 70 °F). Often accompanied by more than one male, females scatter large, yellowish-green eggs in quiet, shallow water among submerged vegetation or other underwater structures. A sticky adhesive holds the eggs together in clumps where they hatch after eight to nine days. The eggs are poisonous to birds and mammals, including humans. The young remain in the yolk sac for another week where they feed on insect larvae and small crustaceans. Young gars typically lead solitary lives and sexual maturity is achieved around three years of age when the gar reaches approximately 15 in (380 mm) in length.
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