temperature for florida gars?

[bill88]

was wondering what temperature is suitable for florida/spotted gars. i went to a lfs today and was about to buy a florida gar then they told me they do best in coldwater or room temperature water. is this true?

 

[KaraJo]

I wouldn't say they do best in coldwater...and room temperature depends on what the temperature of your room is
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I would say mid 70's to 80's is good. they can go down into the 50's or 60's, but its not advised. They are from florida, so they are tropical.

 

[bill88]

i was thinking of keeping them around 76-78. they said it will shorten their lifespan at tropical temperatures. they kept them in about 64-66

 

[demjor19]

i was thinking of keeping them around 76-78. they said it will shorten their lifespan at tropical temperatures. they kept them in about 64-66

Mid 70's is fine for them.

 

[Andri Pogo]

but is it ok to keep them in 80-84°F ?

 

[demjor19]

but is it ok to keep them in 80-84°F ?

I have kept them in the 80's for extended periods of time with no ill effects. At higher temps i would recommend stepping up the waterchange schedule, since the fish's metabolism will be increased. That being said i do think temps in the mid 70's are best though.

 

[Andri Pogo]

thanks!

 

[Polypterus]

I'm personally of the opinion that keeping them at sustained high temps is actually not at all good for them. But then my observations (like others here) are anecdotal. In my experience Platyrhincus do benefit from a temperate schedule of warm in summer then cool in winter. I do not feel sustained high temps are good for these fish.

They are not coldwater fish but they ain't tropical either they do seem to do best with a seasonal fluctuation. All North American gars seem to share this trait, especially Osseus, Spatula and Platostomus. (I assume Oculatus does as well but until recently I have not had a chance to work directly with them as far as Captive husbandry is concerned.)

Any how take it for what it is worth.....