Gars are a distinct group of fish known for their long, slender snouts. While they're not technically billfish, the long snout gives them a similar appearance.
Now, to answer your question: Needle nose gar (or any gar species) primarily eat fish and insects. Their long snouts are useful for hunting in shallow waters, where they can quickly snap up small fish, crustaceans, and insects.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of their diet:
* Fish: The majority of a gar's diet consists of fish, including smaller species like minnows, shad, and even young bass.
* Insects: Gar also eat insects that fall into the water, including dragonflies, beetles, and even grasshoppers.
* Crustaceans: Some gars may occasionally eat small crustaceans like crayfish and shrimp.
It's important to remember that gars are opportunistic feeders. They will eat whatever is readily available to them in their environment.