.................Freshwater Stingray
Other names:...........Tea Cup Stingray Origin:......................South America, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, uruguay Max size:..................26" PH:............-..............6.5-7.0 Temperature:...........76-84 F. Min tank size:..........180 gallons Food:.........................Earthworms, beefheart, chopped fish |
The freshwater Stingray can be an interesting addition to the aquarium. Despite the frightening name, this fish is very peaceful. They have a flattened, circular body much like a large suction cup, with the long, slender tail sticking out behind them.
Stingrays have grown in popularity just recently, and young specimens may cost upwards of 100 dollars. A lively bottom-dweller, it does best in a species tank with open areas at the bottom for swimming and resting. The depth of the aquarium need only be 12", but a large bottom area is needed. Soft sand and floating plants are greatly appreciated. It is normal for these fish to fast and stop eating at times and they are extra sensitive to water pollutions. Use medium-hard, neutral PH water. When feeding, this fish will sometimes trap its food against the glass, and show you just how it eats; it's quite a site to see.
These fish have a barbed stinger located on the upper side of the tail. When carelessly handled by either you or a preditor, it can cause painful abrasions. This stinger is replaced two or three times a year. In the USA, P. henlei and P.
motoro have been bred successfully.
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