Definition
Lepisosteidae is the family name for gars, a group of ancient ray-finned fish. Think of it like the last name of a family – all gars belong to the Lepisosteidae family. These fish are found primarily in North and Central America. They have long, slender bodies covered in hard, ganoid scales. They are known for their predatory behavior and distinctive, elongated jaws filled with sharp teeth. Understanding family classifications helps organize our knowledge of fish.