freshwater stingray pet

Remember to always ask a veterinarian for help regarding all of your pets. And freshwater stingrays are exactly one of those super-unique fish to brag about. Freshwater stingrays are carnivorous. Fish species to avoid include Plecos and other suckermouth catfish, as these have been seen sucking on the rays soft bodies, causing injury and stress. However, some species of freshwater rays can be found in flooded forest areas when the rainy season arrives. Denmark: Badstuestrde 3 3 1209 Copenhagen. We need to prepare your fish for shipping which requires that we stop feeding the fish for minimum 24 hours before shipping. The claspers will look like pointed extensions of the pelvic fin. Also, the barbs grow back relatively quickly, meaning that you would have to repeat the process all over again. When there is no time to head to the market, you can simply feed your pet with meat-based sinking pellets, too. But these fantastic carnivorous are not suitable for everyone. You will very likely fall in love with them. As you probably already know, stingrays have a fascinating flat body shape, much like a pancake with a tail. Freshwater stingray are native to South America. New rays should be quarantined for at least one month before being added to your existing tank. Required fields are marked *. Because of their rarity, the export of these fish is banned, although you can find captive-bred specimens, as these fish are relatively easy to breed. Indeed, the largest obstacle is related to the actual space amount you would need to provide to your pets, as well as the time and efforts you will have to ensure in order to condition them properly and raise their babies. Freshwater stingrays shed their barbs once every few months. Hence, it is best to keep them at or close to zero. Next, the female is to produce the eggs which will hatch internally, to finally give birth to live babies. I also talk about the development of stingray pups and what to expect.Center for Stingra. You can use a 75 to 90-gallon tank for juvenile stingrays, but adults must have at least a 180-gallon to be comfortable. They look like little sausage rolls at the base of their tail. The amount of tannins in their native habitat lead them to prefer slightly acidic water. Most often, though, they like to take the easy way out and hunt for stationary food items like clams and worms that hide in the substrate bed. Husbandry improvements and a better understanding of the fish themselves have improved survival rates. SmithsoniansNationalZoo& ConservationBiologyInstitute However, there is a small group of 33 species that exclusively reside in freshwater. The majority of Tiger River rays are wild-caught, costing upward of $750. Therefore, a fine sand substrate might be the best solution possible. A tank with these dimensions will be able to house a maximum of two freshwater stingrays comfortably into adulthood. Today I give some advise on how to approach buying stingrays online. We ship via UPS next day service, Monday thru Thursday. It has a light brown base with mottled circular orange patterns. They also tend to grow very large due to their mixed bloodlines. To accurately sex a young stingray, it is easier to take it out and place it in a transparent container so the underside can be clearly seen. This can be a huge monetary and time commitment, which makes them a generally poor pet. It is common for older females to have bite marks around the perimeter of her disc. The actual mating does not take more than a minute, and insemination happens internally. For the. Rays can be challenging to keep and are expensive to buy, so be sure to do plenty of research on their care before you part with your cash. Stingrays are extremely sensitive to water conditions, especially to ammonia, nitrite, and nitrates. Freshwater Algae Eaters (50) Freshwater Angelfish (21) Freshwater Catfishes (29) Freshwater Discus (32) Plecos Plecostomus Algae Eaters (36) Freshwater Schooling Fish (177) GloFish (5) Labyrinth Fish - Betta, Gourami, Badis, Paradise Fish (39) Killifish - Cyprinodontidae Fish (11) Loach, Botia & Garra Aquarium Fish (21) Miscellaneous Aquarium . However, this is only used when their wellbeing is seriously compromised. Tank lighting should be subdued and set on a 12-hour night/day cycle. However, if done well, you will be rewarded with an experience like no other.Freshwater stingrays are exceedingly smart. Mostly, they spend their time at the bottom of the rivers, meaning that they can adapt well either to sandy-bottomed waters or to heavily planted areas during the rainy seasons. 1. Washington, DC 20008. Freshwater stingrays are very large and require big tanks. In Cambodia, the populations of this fish inhabit the waters of the Mekong River. These fish come from South America, specifically the Orinoco, Amazon, Mearim, and Ro de la Plata river basins. If you can afford the space, the best option is probably adopting some more stingrays. This increase in filter media also helps to bolster essential nitrifying bacteria that will bring down levels of nitrate, nitrite, and ammonia, all of which are toxic to stingrays even at moderate levels. Although most people think of ocean waters when stingrays are mentioned, there are actually some species which are commonly found in freshwaters. Sexual maturity is usually reached between 8 months to 1.5 years. Galaxy P14 Stingray pairs for sale Galaxy P14 Stingray pairs, Potamotrygon albimaculata sp., also known as Galaxy P14 Hybrid Stingray. This species is also a good choice for hobbyists looking to start keeping stingrays. Uruguay, Paran-Paraguay, Orinoco, and Amazon River basins. Bare bottom aquariums can be a simple and safe choice for these amazing fish. Shortly before 4 p.m., zoo officials said, the employee was doing well and would be . To conclude, freshwater stingrays are not dangerous, but they surely do require a bit of attention from the humans who handle them. Due to their size and voracious appetite, freshwater stingrays require a filtration system that can handle such loads. If kept well, these mysterious species become not only majestic showpieces but also very personable pets almost like playful puppies! These fish from the Peruvian Upper Amazon region are also one of the most sensitive to water quality. Indeed, these pets can literally chew their entire meal out, leaving all the important nutritive values intact. Fishtankadvisor.com does not intend to provide any kind of veterinary suggestion. Pure Breed : Yes The freshwater stingray can be an elusive species for many hobbyists. Although docile creatures, they inflict more human injuries yearly than any other animal in Amazonian rivers. Although you can tame your stingray to accept food from your hand, and many even enjoy being petted, you must be very careful of the fishs venomous stingers. This stinger is a barbed appendage that is located about two thirds the way down the tail. In captivity, most keepers find that their rays accept live blackworms and earthworms as an introduction to frozen foods, including bloodworms and mysis shrimp. These claspers are located on their underside at the base of the tail, in between their pelvic fins. Freshwater stingrays can make a spectacular addition to your collection, although their size and sensitivity to water conditions make these creatures challenging to keep successfully. 10 Fun & Interesting Facts About Freshwater Stingray, Freshwater Stingray Types 10 Varieties of Potamotrygon, Freshwater Stingray Tank Mates 10 Best Compatible Fish. However, because breeding is a stressful ordeal, we recommend breeding your female no more than twice a year. Freshwater Stingrays (Complete Pet Owner's Manuals) Paperback - July 1, 1999 by Richard Ross M.D. An Octopus is a sea animal with rounded bodies, bulging eyes, and eight long arms. Environment: Freshwater. Juveniles love live or frozen bloodworm, Tubifex, Artemia, krill and suchlike. You can expect to pay up to $250 for one of these beautiful rays. The Pearl stingray is a beautiful stingray that is endemic to the Tapajos river system in the Amazon. Though docile animals, they are responsible for more injuries to humans each year than any other Amazonian species. That is why it is undeniable that their mystery makes them an exotic aquatic pet. Height is the least important factor when deciding the aquarium size. Freshwater stingrays produce a relatively large amount of ammonia when compared to their body size, so keeping their water clean is crucial. Origin: South America. For many hobbyists, they are a holy grail. It is also very important that both fishes are in good health before attempting to breed them. Galaxy P14 Hybrid Stingray Female $ 800.00 $ 750.00 Sale! With this unique pet being carnivorous, the first rule to follow is to choose large enough tank mates in order to prevent them from becoming a meal. Stingrays love being buried beneath the sand, often leaving only their eyes to be noticed. Water parameters: pH 5.0-6.0, dH -10, temperature 24-26C / 75 - 78 F. That meant that the fish were stressed and often carried diseases and parasites. Although most of the Sps are cheap, a few hybrid varieties top the charts of the most expensive freshwater stingrays. Freshwater Stingray Care, Facts, Profile & More. Ocellate River Stingray (Potamotrygon Motoro) The Motoro stingray is one of the most common choices among aquarium enthusiasts today, as they make quite the hardy pets once settled in. It takes 24 to 48 hours after receiving your order before we ship. Whatsapp: +1 (469) 334-3496 For that reason, you need to have a good understanding of the Nitrogen Cycle and how it works. Shipping area: USA/CANADA/EUROPE/ASIA, Galaxy P14 Hybrid Freshwater Stingray female Ask the store to reserve the fish for you, and allow them a week or so to settle in before you make your purchase and take the fish home. These friendly, fascinating creatures are becoming an increasingly common sight in specialty fish stores and online. Stingrays can be fun to keep, and they do make great interactive pets. As such, large food items must be specially prepared. While no freshwater species are known to have caused human fatalities, we know . After each feeding, we vacuum and remove the remaining food in the tank. However, we know many freshwater stingray breeders who have raised stingrays from pups without any substrate. Due to freshwater stingrays being closely related, different members of a single genus can all hybridize with one another. They enjoy live food portions containing white fish, but they actually seem to prefer invertebrates, so including these into their regular diet will certainly make them happy. Although these fish prefer low-flow water, a higher turnover rate will reduce the bioload in the tank. The discarded barbs then fall to the bottom of your fish tank. However, their sting is only a defense mechanism and is rarely used unless absolutely necessary. They are voracious eaters and will even eat out of your hand once they are comfortable enough. Surprisingly, breeding freshwater stingrays is the easiest part of keeping them. 3 Types of Freshwater Stingrays that sell for $1000+ Flip Aquatics 111K subscribers Join Subscribe 7 views 6 minutes ago Freshwater stingrays are one of the coolest pets I've seen for. The female will begin to look swollen closer to the due date. While some keepers do offer food items like ghost shrimp and black worms, there is a significant risk of parasites if the food comes from unfavorable conditions. They need massive tanks and are sensitive to water parameter fluctuations. Given the small space within a tank and the fact that barbs sink to the bottom where the stingrays live, this has been the fate of far too many aquarium rays in the past. What they cannot withstand are fluctuations. 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW The original polka-dot stingray, Potamotrygon Henlei, is one of the most majestic stingrays available in the trade. I've had lots of fish from Krzysztof inc bds, albino pearl, banjar red arrowana,and hybrid bdxp14. When buying your ray, look closely at the fish to make sure that the edges of the disc are not curling up, commonly known as the death curl. You also need to check that the ray has no obvious nicks or other injuries. Most of these fish come from a particular river system, with most found in the Amazon River. The size they reach in the aquarium is directly related to the amount of food they get. Stingray reproduction is a unique process that has earned these fish their name. Water Quality Freshwater Stingray are sensitive to water parameters. Ammonia and nitrite have to be at zero at all times, while nitrate levels should never exceed 10ppm. Once born, we separate the pups and place them in a blacked-out floating container in the mothers tank for the first two days to let them settle down. The spines are constantly being shed and replaced, allowing the stingray to sometimes have two stingers as a new stinger grows in to replace the older one. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. In their natural environment, stingrays prefer slightly acidic water (mainly due to the tannins present). This fish can detect the electric field of a nearby animal, thus helping it to catch its prey more easily. Quality Freshwater Stingray Fishes Available for Sale 1. What do Stingrays eat in the wild and as pets? It is completely normal for the female to look bloated if she has a large litter. Males mature faster than females and will be ready to mate at about 12 inches in diameter. Some freshwater species will even prey on insects! Live food is generally more enticing and can induce a better feeding response for sick or recovering stingrays. Black Diamond Stingray 3. If the ray shows no interest in food, dont buy it. Freshwater stingrays spend most of their day on the tank bottom. Can Goldfish Eat Bloodworms? They are also relatively small, reaching up to 16 in diameter. Freshwater stingrays prefer less salty waters, and can be found in rivers across Australia, Africa, and Southeast Asia. The developing embryos receive additional nutrition from a milky, rich substance produced in the mother's uterus. Black Devil Stingrays come from the Xingu River tributary of the Amazon, and this is the only place where these unusual, beautiful fish exist in the wild. They have an unusual reproductive method where they lay their eggs on the bottom of the water and then the male fertilizes them by swimming over them. However, you will not see this in a mature Leopoldi. Black diamonds sometimes have donut-shaped white spots and white speckles near the perimeter of their disc. The water pH should be in the range of 6.8 to 7.6, with an alkalinity between 1 and 4. Size: 7 inches If youre an experienced aquarist and youre looking for something different and undoubtedly impressive to add to your collection, the freshwater stingray might be a species to consider. Also, we advise that you dont buy any recently acquired rays. Freshwater Stingray Freshwater Stingray Grid List Sale! They enjoy live food portions containing white fish, but they actually seem to prefer invertebrates, so including these into their regular diet will certainly make them happy. As weve mentioned earlier, the freshwater stingray is a carnivore. A stingray's spine is constantly being shed and replaced. Indeed, the freshwater stingray loves inhabiting the Amazon River, but some versions can easily be found around Southeast Asia, Australia, and Africa. Stingrays belong to a family of fishes that are related to sharks. Some everyday food items that will entice them are tubifex worms, bloodworms, blackworms, and ghost shrimp. Most stingrays that we know of are marine fishes. Freshwater stingrays of various species come from the rivers of Australia, Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa. Indeed, they require lots of space and attention from their keepers. These special pets do require lots of attention and even more space. Although there are many species of freshwater rays to be found in the trade, you only see a few of those in fish stores. Female stingrays are capable of giving birth to 1--12 pups with each pregnancy. Please leave us your questions in the sections below! This species grows slightly smaller than the Motoro and can reach sizes of up to 30 inches in diameter. However, the majority seen for sale in the US come from South America. First of all, they require stable temperature levels which can recreate their natural tropical conditions, so anywhere between 75- and 82-degrees Fahrenheit. Now, you might wonder what is the most suitable kind of aquarium for you to keep these aquatic pets. In North America, fish stores usually sell stingrays of the Potamotrygon genus found naturally in South America. Large females can produce up to 200,000 eggs, but they only spawn every 2-4 years. The minimum size where to keep a fully-grown specimen should be not less than 180 gallons, although you can keep it for some time in a somehow smaller tank during its baby and juvenile phases. Freshwater stingrays are a species of ray that are found in freshwater, mainly in Australia and South America. A robust biological filtration system is perhaps the most essential piece of equipment you can have when keeping freshwater stingrays. Stingrays are certainly one of the most wanted aquatic pets among enthusiasts today and, as a surprise to some, they can be freshwater as well. While there are some exceptions to this rule, most of their diet should only consist of animal matter. These rays are relatively cheap, are less sensitive than other species. A peptide mix of pain-inflicting agents is produced in juvenile rays, while adult fish use inflammatory proteins that cause tissue necrosis. Plants of any kind are not recommended because the rays are likely to burrow in the sand and uproot everything. If you do get stung, you should plunge the injured area into very hot water, as heat negates the effect of the rays venom. The gestation period usually lasts about three months, with different species differing by a few days each. Directly behind the eyes are spiracles, which are openings that allow for respiration. It is a dark brown color with yellow or orange spots. Accidents generally happen when wild stingrays are stepped on or improperly handled. Having a shorter tank will also aid with the weekly aquarium maintenance. What is a freshwater stingray like? Their tails can reach up to 1 foot (30.5 centimeters) in length and an inch wide (2.5 centimeters). ive also part exchanged fish always had a great experience highly recommend for both imported and uk tank bred rays soon il be collecting my 2 atabapo pike and tiger moray eel. About the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Andean Bear Cub Cam: Best Moments of the Week #2, Andean Bear Cub Cam: Best Moments of the Week #1. Stingrays at the Zoo are often sent to other sites around the country for breeding. Their tails can reach up to 1 foot (30.5 centimeters) in length and an inch wide (2.5 centimeters). When proper conditions are provided during their life in captivity, freshwater stingrays can survive anywhere from 5 up to even 10 years. The giant freshwater stingray ( Himantura chaophraya) is like the Mekong giant catfish, one of the world's biggest and heaviest freshwater fish species. These fish also produce vast amounts of ammonia relative to their size, so youll need a big tank with a very efficient biological filtration system. When choosing the most suitable pets for their home, many aquarium enthusiasts look for those animals which are perhaps a bit unusual, rare or special in any other way. Choose an in-line design or put the heater in a sump so that the rays dont burn themselves. Stingrays hunt by jumping out of the sand, trapping prey animals under their bodies. About one litter of two to six pups is produced yearly. They love spending their time at the tank bottoms, waiting for their food and exploring their territory. The rays preferred habitat is slow-moving rivers with a sandy substrate bottom. White sturgeon fecundity increases with size. This means that males and females have visible physiological differences that distinguish them. In human care, they live between 5 and 10 years. They do not have very big mouths. When it comes to freshwater stingrays, there are more types from which to choose, and we are sharing ten of the most interesting below. All Rights Reserved. Other than that, your stingray pet will be a rather peaceful one, and will often try interacting with you and your family members. (+ Other FAQs). As mentioned previously, most stingray species grow to a large size, so youll need a large tank. Some species like Potamotrygon Leopoldi and Potamotrygon Motoro can grow up to 36 inches in diameter if kept in the right conditions. Eclipse Stingray 2. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Indeed, your delicate pet can easily get injured on these, so please make sure to choose smooth rocks or Brazilian driftwood. The size of the spots also makes a difference. These rays are one of the smallest species, measuring up to 12 in diameter. Before we talk about how big the tank should be for a single stingray to live comfortably, we need to understand the important aspects to consider. These rays are also close cousins of sawfish and sharks. Jamie Wheatley. It is also critical that your tank is well and fully cycled before the introduction of any freshwater stingray because they are extremely sensitive to water parameter fluctuations. However, not any will be a good fit, so choosing the tank mates for your freshwater stingray carefully is vitally important. You can expect to pay up to $300 for an Ocellate ray. Freshwater rays are found in the St Johns River in Florida. This is in contrast to most cartilaginous fish, which live in a salt water environment. However, these cannot really offer the natural stimulus which these creatures need to thrive. Newborn pups are susceptible to everything. Unlike other public aquariums, visitors cannot touch the stingrays at the Zoo, because they are capable of stinging; the Zoo does not cap, trim or surgically remove the stingrays' spines. That means they almost exclusively consume meat. In the list below are a few species of freshwater stingrays that have become popular in the aquarium trade in recent years. Freshwater stingrays, unlike other fishes, do not have scales and are covered only by a layer of skin that secretes a thin layer of mucus for protection. Pea Puffers Care: Aquarium Setup, Diet & Breeding Tips. Medical Precautions. Funny Pet Videos 2019, Cat Fails Funny Cat Videos Funny Animal Videos 2020. All freshwater stingrays are carnivores. In the wild, most of their diet consists of various worms, mollusks, and small fish that stray too close. Tank Size As mentioned previously, most stingray species grow to a large size, so you'll need a large tank. Yes, you read that right, sharks! 5 ways to know if its a safe treat to give your dog! For our stingrays, we choose to maintain a 1-3 inch layer of size zero river sand. Stingrays, like their names suggest, have stingers. You should also seek urgent medical attention. Freshwater rays are flesh-eaters that feed mainly with fish and crustaceans in the wild. Company: Other rays and non aggressive fishes. Atlantic stingrays are native to the US. Crabs, shrimps, and lobsters rank among their favorite foods. They are very inquisitive fish with definite minds of their own! Designing in a sump increases the space available for filter media such as bio rings which help increase the surface area for beneficial fauna to flourish. When decorating your tank, be sure to leave lots of open space on the bottom so that the rays have plenty of swimming area and scape to bury themselves in the sand. The more food that is made available, the larger they will grow. Freshwater stingrays live in the Amazon River system and are one of the only rays inhabiting freshwater rather than saltwater. You can also feed your rays raw white fish and raw shrimp, and captive-bred rays can be offered sinking pellets and tablet foods. Rays only use their barbs defensively if they feel threatened. Conservation The giant freshwater stingray has been declining in population for many years now. This is because stingrays find security by burrowing, so thats how they will spend much of their time. Freshwater stingrays have a cartilaginous skeleton rather than bone. Most of the bottom-dwelling rays will feed using an ambush technique. Order online or in person at our new Fishkill, New York aquarium store location. Freshwater Stingray, The Best Pet Fish? This species is usually kept by those who are looking to start raising black-based stingrays, as they are generally less expensive than their P13 counterparts. Also, they are surrounded by a sense of mystique and surely make one of the most unique pets one can ever own. It takes 10 to 12 years for male white sturgeon to reach sexual maturation and 30-45 inches, while 12 to 16 years for females, 35 - 60 inches to sexual maturity. Freshwater stingrays belong to a large family of true rays, much like their saltwater relatives. Sex : Males (36 available) The Motoro is a good first stingray because it is the most forgiving of all the species on this list. Usually, the live feed is used as a last resort if your stingray has stopped eating. The best part when feeding these amazing fish is not having to worry about separating shells or heads from their meals, as they are among those which feed by mastication. Comprising of 24 out of the 33 species of freshwater stingray, the Potamotrygon genus by far has the best survival rates in the home aquarium. Theyd rather spend their time combing the riverbeds and substrate for food. Next, the pH level of such water should be from 6,8 to 7,6 while the alkalinity can range anywhere from 18ppm and 70ppm. Veterinary Disclaimer: AquariumNexus.com does not intend to provide any kind of veterinary suggestion. This is all part of their natural instincts and it is always suggestable for keepers to stimulate such behavior as much as possible. If a barb breaks off in your skin, you must consult your doctor or get to the emergency room. Most freshwater stingrays require a constant water temperature between 75 and 82F. The male will sometimes swim inverted to get into a better position to insert his claspers. The frequency of this depends on the individual and is different for each species. Hence, a height of two feet will be more than sufficient for them. While it can be tricky to tell them apart before sexual maturity, with a little practice, youll be a pro! Ammonia . We feed our stingrays thrice daily. A sting from the barb of a freshwater ray is excruciating and much more potent than saltwater rays. This family of fish, though carnivorous, is not particularly aggressive. All you need is a pair of mature adult stingrays, and they will most probably breed. 42+ Most Unique & Beautiful Types of Cichlids for Every Aquarist, Freshwater Shrimp: 26 Colorful Types for Aquarium (with Care Tips), 35 Most Exotic & Cool Freshwater Fish for Aquarium (with Care Tips), 20 Most Effective Algae Eaters for Freshwater Aquarium (all Sizes), 39 Most Colorful & Active Types of Tetras to Intrigue Aquarists, 38 Most Colorful Freshwater Fish to Enhance Your Aquarium, Saltwater Fish: Most Popular Picks for Your Marine Aquarium. Breed: Black Diamond Stingray Most people living alone have fish tanks with different types of fish, and freshwater stingrays are proving an emerging favorite among fish lovers. Owning a Freshwater Stingray A reputable seller will help you chose the right size aquarium with a well-filtered system to house your pet and meet with your state's requirements. These spectacular creatures are really peaceful pets, and you should either aggressively bother your pet or to step on it in order for it to sting you. Indeed, with these creatures spending most time at the bottom of the tank, they require lots of horizontal space to move around freely. Although the tank height isnt important, the aquarium for freshwater stingrays should be at least 72 to 84 in length and between 24 and 36 wide. When considering the popular fish varieties, freshwater stingrays play a vital role in all places. Simply raising awareness about this species can contribute to its overall protection. However, due to the fact that freshwater stingrays live in a concentrated environment, scientists believe they might be endangered. While most other aquarium applications might recommend a cycle rate of 10 times the tanks volume per hour, we recommend somewhere between 15-20 times the volume for stingrays. So, before buying a freshwater ray, double-check the rules for wildlife ownership in your area. Share the story of this animal with others. Each meal consists of just enough for them to consume within about five minutes. As long as you keep your stingrays in water that falls within these ranges and does not change much, they will be happy and healthy. These rays are one of the easiest species to look after and grow to measure up to 24 in diameter. This is vitally important in order to provide a safe yet suitable home for your new pet. The content of this website is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice. These amazing creatures are highly intelligent and can learn to interact with their humans in an amazing way. Although there are different sizes of stingrays, most are large, and even the smallest reaches up to a foot in diameter. Until recent years, most of the fish in the trade were wild-caught, resulting in exorbitant prices and high mortality rates. Once again, freshwater stingrays are overly sensitive to any unideal water state, so please always keep track of its parameters and intervene as soon as there is an oscillation. While not all Potamotrygon Leopoldi are black diamonds, they are still considered variations of the same species. However, hobbyists and keepers have now bred these fish to an extent where there is no more need to obtain specimens from the wild. If you intend to keep a Motoro, make sure you have adequate tank space. Although the barbs dont contain nerve endings and removing them is not thought to cause pain, the experience is undoubtedly stressful for the fish. When it is born, a ray's disc is about 3 inches (8 centimeters) wide. They enjoy spending their lives across tropical and subtropical environmental conditions. In a zoological setting, stingrays are provided with plenty of swimming space. In order to understand whether this shark-related animal is ideal for your home, here comes its full care, facts and profile sheet. Since 2017, some states, including California, Arkansas, Hawaii, Arizona, Nevada, Mississippi, Utah, and Texas, have banned the ownership of Potamotrygon species, while Florida and Colorado demand a permit. The danger comes about when overly excited stingrays start thrashing around for food, sometimes swinging their tails. Read Our Article To Find Out! Freshwater stingrays are not considered to be aggressive creatures, but they still are purely carnivorous. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Therefore, they will usually avoid getting into conflict with those fish that do not fit into their mouth and will most likely simply ignore them, but they will happily ingest any fish which is just of the right size to become its meal. Southeast Asia is home to the world's largest freshwater stingray, Himantura chaophraya. As long as the stinger barbs are removed promptly, your fish will be fine. Ammonia and nitrites must be zero, and nitrates should be below 10 ppm. These can be shrimp, mussels, bloodworms and similar, but you can also offer your pet some occasional land insects such as crickets. Surprisingly, breeding freshwater stingrays is the easiest part of keeping them. Copyright 2022 - AquariumNexus. However, their sting is only a defense mechanism and is rarely used unless absolutely necessary. Freshwater stingrays reproduce through internal fertilization. Its main diet consists of crabs, squid, crustaceans, fish, sea snails, shrimp, and prawns. An Amazing Giant. Although being carnivorous and fairly strong, freshwater stingrays can function pretty well with several tank mates, as long as they are carefully selected. However, if you have a big enough tank, there is no harm in a bit of decor like bogwood and stones. Choose your pets wisely, and do your research before bringing an animal home. The wound itself might not be severe, but the surrounding tissue could die as a potentially very dangerous side effect of a sting. In the home aquarium, however, most keepers opt to feed them with chopped fish and shrimp. The venom is produced by cells that also produce toxic mucus. As their name implies, they live in fresh water in the Amazon. The Octopus when threatened shoots an inky fluid that darkens the surrounding water to confuse the aggressor . Each spine has grooves underneath that contain protein-based venom. Freshwater stingrays, as their name suggests, possess a row of barbs on their tail. It takes about a month for them to grow to a stable size of four inches or so before they can be started on the same foods the adults take. The Black diamond is a variation of the Leopoldi with an even cleaner jet black base with more white spots. To mimic this, we usually keep our stingrays in the pH range of 6.5 6.8. At the Smithsonian's National Zoo, the stingrays eat shrimp, earthworms, smelt and an aquatic omnivore gel diet. BUY WITH CONFIDENCE!! Now more than ever, we need your support. The matter of clipping stingrays barbs for the safety of keepers is highly contentious. The black base color, coupled with white spots and a paddle tail made it very different from any other stingray before. Otherwise, freshwater stingrays are very peaceful and can have very personable characters, making them an absolute joy to keep. Make sure to choose those which are decently sized to avoid them becoming a meal, but also those species which mostly spend time at the upper levels of the tank. Mating occurs year-round so there is no need to wait for a specific season. (Author) 20 ratings Paperback $8.69 8 Used from $4.78 Many stingrays are small enough for home aquariums, but hobbyists must know how to protect against stingray venom. Alot of people want to buy a stingray when they 'finally' upgrade to 125-150g tank, but don't keep in mind that there will be another upgrade right around the corner. They are not typically hunted for food but are becoming popular in the aquarium trade. . Their conservation status is currently unknown. The freshwater stingray is without question an incredible creature. Freshwater stingrays are mysterious creatures. These are from the family Potamotrygonidae. These flattened fishes have eyes on the top of their bodies with mouths and gill slits on their undersides. For those of you who do not yet know, they give birth to live young! They will need feeding at least once or twice a day. Once the female gets tired, she will accept the male, and he will proceed to insert his claspers into her cloaca. As a stingray keeper, it is essential to always keep an eye out for their stinger no matter how calm the situation might be. A male impregnates the female by using a modified pelvic fin as he bites the female's back. While it is more common for these fishes to be in the 30-inch range, you will still need to be prepared for them to grow continuously throughout their lives. Mothers very rarely eat their pups. More often than not, rays are thought of as saltwater creatures and many are surprised to discover that they also live in freshwater. Males have a pair of claspers that are used for insemination during mating. Freshwater stingrays are carnivorous. Housing them in habitats with rounded . While doing this makes things more convenient for the aquarist, it can sometimes cause stress to the rays (especially if the tank is heavily stocked with other fishes) and offers them no place to seek shelter. The venomous barb is actually a modified scale, and the stingray only uses it for defense. Most of the freshwater stingrays we see today originate from the Amazon basin in particular the Potamotrygon family, which weve mentioned earlier. However, these fish are not suitable for beginners, and they can be challenging to feed and keep healthy. Since RayFever.com Is based in South Africa and the only large-scale Fresh Water Stingray breeder. In todays article, well go in-depth about this majestic family of fishes and how best to keep them in the home aquarium. From experience, we can tell you that they are among the most personable fish you can possibly keep. To dispel a common myth, these fish dont attack people with their stingers and are not aggressive toward humans. Caring For Freshwater Stingrays Stingrays can be fun to keep, and they do make great interactive pets. Leopoldis have a much cleaner look and have much clearer white spots as compared to the Henlei. Here are some examples of functioning tank mates: Freshwater stingrays breed through internal fertilization. However, it is important to note that pups have small mouths and can be quite finicky when it comes to changes in diet. 5.5 inch. The rays eyes and spiracles (gill inlets) are sited on top of the fishs body so that they can stay hiding under the sand, waiting for prey to appear. When it comes to choosing tank mates for rays, the most compatible fish species are: Tank mates for freshwater rays must be peaceful fish, and large enough not to be eaten, so they dont bully the rays. Exotic animals dont always make great pets. Its thought that all freshwater stingray species are livebearers. What we usually do is to isolate the female a few weeks before she is due. While there is no immediate danger when feeding these fishes, it does get messy. So, for the first few weeks of their lives, it is best to keep them in the same water in which they were born. Floorspace is also important because larger stingrays in small tanks will have a hard time turning as they navigate the bottom of the tank. We usually feed our pups three times daily as well! However, unless you have lots of space and time for this project, breeding rays in captivity is difficult. The colorful glow of Washington, D.C.s beloved Smithsonians National Zoo holiday tradition is back for 2022. Potamotrygon albimaculata sp Individuals in a litter of stingrays are called pups. Affiliate Disclosure: AquariumNexus.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. And when doing so, you can actually teach your stingray to eat either from tweezers or even from your hands (at some point)! Freshwater stingrays, unlike other fishes, do not have scales and are covered only by a layer of skin that secretes a thin layer of mucus for protection. The unborn young are ovoviviparous, meaning they are nourished by egg yolk inside the mother's body. Many hobbyists feed live blackworms to get new rays eating as soon as possible, but frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp, raw shrimp or white fish (tilapia) and live earthworms are better choices once rays are acclimated to their new surroundings. The claspers are more obvious as the stingray ages and reaches sexual maturity. In contrast, others migrate between ocean, brackish, and freshwater environments, searching for food from Mexico north to the Chesapeake Bay. But are freshwater stingrays easy to keep, and can you breed them in your home tank? This behavior can seem quite violent when the male will bite and chew at the females body. Bought a black dimond male came in perfect . And, of course, they sport stingers on their tails that serve as formidable weapons. That allows the carnivorous stingrays to detect prey items hidden under the substrate and hunt in complete darkness. Motoro. After a gestation period of three months, the female produces eggs that hatch internally before birth. Females can give birth a few times a year. If you find yourself being suitable to offer all the necessary conditions for freshwater stingrays to thrive, you certainly will not be sorry for adopting one or two. They are opportunistic feeders that will eat any fish small enough that comes too close. At times, they may even have two at a once. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Your email address will not be published. Furthermore, they are extremely sensitive to water conditions and need to have pristine water at all times. They have strong mouths with rows of small teeth designed for grinding up and breaking the shells of invertebrates. Some species can give birth to more pups than others, and larger females tend to have larger litters. Their natural environment usually consists of a deep layer of substrate, fallen trees, and leaf litter. Most of the species on this list are endemic to a particular Amazonian river system. At times, the Henlei may exhibit yellowish spots with a greyish base. Black Diamond Stingray Male $ 400.00 $ 350.00 Sale! They are also known as gluttonous ones, thus the food for them will be quite costly for you. While these pellets have varying degrees of success with the fish, they are by far the most convenient option. However, plants that are able of growing onto driftwood and smooth rocks, such as anubias or java ferns, or even some sorts of floating plants such as duckweed, are all more than welcome. Freshwater stingrays are also very sensitive to ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. The potency of the venom is influenced by the ray species, diet, and water chemistry. Freshwater stingrays can grow to have a disc width of about 18 inches (46 centimeters). The lifespan of a freshwater stingray in the wild is currently unknown. The Potamotrygon family is the most prominent in the aquarium trade, as well discuss below. Because of their late age of sexual maturity . Indeed, although they are strong and feature several natural advantages in fighting off their opponents, they actually tend to have a fairly docile behavior. Black Diamond Stingray Female $ 400.00 $ 350.00 Sale! Freshwater stingrays can accept a relatively wide spectrum of parameters as long as theyre kept consistent. If you are not ready to commit enough space, your stingray will suffer and most probably die. Tiger River rays are quite popular in the trade, although not much is known about them. Pregnant Goldfish: What to Look for & What to Do? Home Renovation Tips: Keeping Your Kids And Pets Safe, How Many Ghost Shrimp Can I Add per Gallon? These are active fishes with high metabolism level, and that's why you should feed them at least twice a day. Freshwater stingrays are as good as any pet fishes you may crave. Their powerful jaws can easily crush the shells of clams and mussels, and they will occasionally eat small fish. Tropical reptiles and small mammals are often traded internationally and may be victims of the illegal pet trade. At this point, its important not to stress the female out, or she may have a miscarriage or premature birth. Leopoldis should only be kept by experienced aquarists as they are more sensitive to water parameters than other freshwater stingrays. The content of this website is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice. As for temperature, they are fine with anything from 70F to 82F. Most owners also opt to feed their stingrays just enough to keep them full for a few hours since they are very messy eaters. In the past, almost all the freshwater stingrays offered for sale were wild-caught. Your email address will not be published. We hope youve found this article fun and informative. Feeding pups can be tricky as they usually only take live food at the start. Freshwater stingrays eat crustaceans and other invertebrates. You should not add salt to the tank, and many stingray owners use DI/RO water, together with a trace element restorer. However, most of the rays you see in fish stores these days are captive-bred. For more information, please check our, a good choice for hobbyists looking to start keeping stingrays, defense mechanism and is rarely used unless absolutely necessary, Some keepers opt to separate the males after breeding, it is best to keep them in the same water, isolate the female a few weeks before she is due, We usually feed our pups three times daily as well, Malaysian Trumpet Snail: Care Guide (with Tank Setup & Breeding), Blasto Coral Care: Growth-Focused Diet, Placement & Propagation. A fascinating fact about these creatures is that the females own two uteruses, so they can actually get pregnant with two different males at the same time and bring life to their babies afterwards. However, if other stingrays are present, cannibalism is a significant danger. Many regions prohibit the keeping of stingrays, as many species are threatened in the wild, so be sure to check the rules with your local authority before you spend your cash on one of these beautiful animals. size: 100 cm WD / 39 inches WD 15 Kg. As we've mentioned earlier, the freshwater stingray is a carnivore. Stingray Care. However, other fish can also work simply fine. Ideally, this should take care not just of the biological filtration, but also of the chemical and mechanical ones. While it is considered undesirable to dilute the bloodline of a certain species, some breeders have created stunning variations of stingrays by interbreeding different species of freshwater stingrays. Along with a good filter, you will also need to perform regular partial water changes to ensure your pet is getting all the attention it deserves. But, once again, they are not a good fit for everyone. We remember being in awe many years ago when they first appeared. As all stingrays, freshwater versions of the species also feature a venomous barb. Of course, this doesnt mean you should starve your fish to keep it from growing larger. Youll also need to carry out frequent water changes to keep pristine water quality. When you become a member, you also receive exclusive benefits, like special opportunities to meet animals, discounts at Zoo stores and more. Suzy Sue. The most common of the lot, the Ocellate river stingray, sometimes called the Motoro, is a great stingray to start with. They are born as fully-formed miniature versions of their parents. Breeding freshwater stingrays in captivity is not a mission impossible, but it is rather hard to achieve. The Porcupine River Stingray comes from the upper reaches of the Rio de la Plata and is a very popular choice for first-time ray owners. As they grow large, theyll need NO LESS than three by five feet worth of floorspace available to them. However, these fish are not suitable for beginners, and they can be challenging to feed and keep healthy. Most injuries to ray keepers are accidental and can be avoided if you take care not to frighten, harass, or stress your rays. Stingrays do not tolerate mistakes well, and it would be best to remember that. Keep reading for the definitive guide to keeping these beautiful, enigmatic freshwater fish. Most South American species have colorful dorsal patterns that feature spots of different sizes and background colorings of gray, brown or black. Galaxy P14 Stingray pairs $ 1,400.00 $ 1,350.00 Sale! Stingrays are venomous animals. 235,569 views Dec 19, 2020 9.9K Dislike Share Save Clint's Reptiles 450K subscribers Cartilaginous fishes like sharks and stingrays are among the. They are absent in female stingrays. Upper water level swimmers are the best choice so that the rays have the bottom of the tank to themselves. The zoo employee was taken to the Nebraska Medical Center in critical condition, according to a 911 dispatcher. Once ready, the male will begin chasing the female around the tank. They also possess electrosensitive pores called Ampullae of Lorenzini, which enable the fish to detect the electronic impulses given off by all animals. This will ensure they do not disturb each other and can live into a tranquil environment. Following are some points to consider before purchasing your first freshwater stingray. What do Stingrays eat in a fish tank? Chip Your Pet Month | Pet Microchipping Guide. When the female is ready, she will give birth to her pups. Email: contact@arowanaparadise.com, USA: 11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79016, United States Some of ours recognize our faces and will swim to the top of the tank to spit water at us to get some attention when we walk past! 5 talking about this. Their tails are typically longer than their disc width and usually have one or more long, saw-like spines behind the pelvic fin. These shed barbs should be removed as soon as possible to prevent them from impaling your stingrays in the tank. Most keepers opt to have a sump system installed to increase the volume of water in the tank as well as increase the amount of filter media to handle the heavy bioload. But not only. Since 2002, the Zoo has been highly successful in breeding freshwater stingrays. The freshwater stingray is found in many different tropical regions of the world, and there are many different varieties. Females, on the other hand, should only be bred once they have reached 15-18 inches. Freshwater stingrays are notorious for increasing the bioload in the tank tremendously. Ask the vendor to show you the ray eating. Female rays have two uteruses, meaning that they can simultaneously carry two litters of pups from two different male rays. That means you should plan ahead and invest into a powerful and highly efficient filtration system. Origins Stingrays usually find security in the substrate at the bottom of the tank. Members are our strongest champions of animal conservation and wildlife research. And, of course, they sport stingers on their tails that serve as formidable weapons. If kept properly, the pups should reach a stable size of five inches within three months or so before they can be sold or given away. When it comes to decorations, the golden rule here is to avoid sharp objects. You can find freshwater stingrays . We will cover what we know to work and include supplier options available to you from your pet store, seafood supplier or specialist such as ourselvesmore on that later. However, in captivity, the stinging barbs are periodically shed and replaced by new ones. This page may contain affiliate links, which will earn us a commission. Never release animals that have been kept as pets into the wild. After this, they can be removed and placed in a grow-out tank. Please always ask a veterinarian for help regarding your pets. Age:4 months old Male stingrays, as an exception, can get quite aggressive during the mating process, as they will start biting on the bodies of their female partners and strongly taking them over. This gives her the chance to relax and offers the pups a better chance at survival. Most of these species can be found at your local fish store or from a breeder. If you are a beginner looking to keep your first ray, be sure to do adequate research as they are both financially and mentally taxing animals to keep. Native Habitat Freshwater stingray are native to South America. The process can get relatively violent but is entirely natural. Feeding is usually an easy process for an already established stingray. We are the #1 trusted source for freshwater stingrays in the USA. As their name implies, they livein fresh water in the Amazon. That means they almost exclusively consume meat. So, you will need a large tank with powerful filtration to house one of these beauties. On top of that, these shark relatives are highly intelligent, meaning that they will often interact with their humans and happily form a relationship with them. The species involved, the Atlantic stingray, Dasyatis sabina (please see photo), is known to forage in river mouths, but the St. John's River population is the only one that has become independent of the sea, even breeding in freshwater. When the barbs are shed, they are still poisonous and remain dangerous for several days. The freshwater stingray is a very large fish and, by all accounts, should only be raised by experienced keepers who understand their needs. Since the roots of plants can often be more of a disturbance rather than an advantage, it is better to avoid heavily planted tanks for these bottom feeders. Freshwater stingrays are carnivores, feeding mostly on fish and crustaceans in the wild. Fishtankadvisor.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Freshwater stingrays should not be characterized as aggressive creatures. Some keepers opt to separate the males after breeding to prevent further stress to the female. Some hazards can crop up if you have a group of zealous freshwater stingrays trying to have a meal together. About the Freshwater Ray Stingrays are close relatives to sharks and sawfish, in that they have cartilaginous skeletons in place of . After mating is completed, they will separate. They are widespread in oceans globally but especially abundant in deep, tropical waters. Keeping freshwater stingrays is an immensely rewarding experience. They are quite fascinating once you get to know them, and there are still so many things about these creatures that we need to fully understand and learn (for instance, how long they live in their wild habitats). Stingray venom is cardiotoxic. If you are going to keep freshwater stingrays, here are the tank, water and substrate requirements you should know about: If you decide to adopt a freshwater stingray, please be prepared to it needing a fairly large tank with pristine water conditions. Rays like to burrow down into the substrate, so fine sand is essential. The Potamotrygon Henlei is also a large stingray and will require adequate space before commitment. Despite their many similarities with sharks, these delicate animals prey on the notorious sea predator. Many require special care and live for a long time. We also usually add little to no decor into our stingray tanks because stingrays like to explore every inch of floorspace available, making floorspace a very valuable asset. They are also one of the cheapest rays at around $100, and they are readily available. You can expect to pay up to $1,500 for a Black Devil Stingray, which can reach 18 in diameter. Once your rays have settled in, you can often train them to take a portion of food from tweezers or your fingers. Make a donation to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute today! This species is one of the most commonly found in home aquariums. Recent years have even seen commercial pellets being developed, especially for bottom-dwelling carnivores. He will try to cling on to her by biting onto the perimeter of her disc. So what do you need to keep a tank of happy healthy stingrays? Using Homeopathic Principles for a Healthy Dog or Cat, Cake Decorating 101 with Funny Dog Maymo: Yummy Cake Recipe by Dog Chef, Adorable Pets Youll Just Fall In Love With! These rays are rare in nature and are consequently one of the most expensive fish in the hobby. Having a handle on these matters beforehand will greatly increase your chances of succeeding with these spectacular fishes. Stingray Fish Pete's Aquariums & Fish is your #1 source for online and in-store sales of Marine Saltwater Aquarium Fish like Stingray Fish / Stingrays including Bluespotted Ribbontail Stingray Fish, Atlantic Stingray Fish, Yellow Stingray Fish, and more. Home Freshwater Stingrays Freshwater Stingray Care, Facts, Profile & More. These can be shrimp, mussels, bloodworms and similar, but you can also offer your pet some occasional land insects such as crickets. Albino Pearl Stingray Male $ 600.00 $ 550.00 Sale! However, the Motoro is a large species and can grow up to 36 inches in diameter. King Henlei Stingray Usually considered the ultimate aquarium stingray, the Potamotrygon Leopoldi is even more majestic than its P12 counterparts. Used for self-defense, the stinger is tipped with barbs that can rip through flesh when withdrawn. When sexually mature, the male specimen will hold onto the female by biting her, and he will impregnate her with the help of his modified pelvic fin. These fish are one of the larger species of Amazonian rays growing up to 28 in diameter. Once that you have found your ideal permanent tank, you should be careful to setup its water parameters correctly. Freshwater stingrays can grow to have a disc width of about 18 inches (46 centimeters). While there are some exceptions to this rule, most of their diet should only consist of animal matter. Sexually mature males do get aggressive when they are trying to mate. However, most injuries are to the fingers or feet and are not as dangerous or life-threatening as a sting to the trunk or closer to the heart. It is best to use gloves when removing the shed barbs from the tank. Another big problem when trying to feed stingrays is the size of the food item. That means, within 3-5 years, you will need to purchase a 300-500 gallon tank for your new pet. Before sexual maturity, these claspers are not obvious, but they are still there. And, more importantly, you should aim to have a longer tank rather than a higher one. Your tank heater must have a guard fitted around it. Stingrays are sexually dimorphic. The giant freshwater stingray is a carnivore. The young stingrays are initially placed in 150-gallon "nursery tanks" until they reach a size where they can defend themselves, whereupon they are moved to a larger pool. More and more keepers nowadays opt to keep freshwater stingrays without any substrate in the tanks. In the wild, the fish eat mainly crustaceans and other fish. Make sure that any decorations are smooth and dont have any rough surfaces or sharp edges. Different genus of stingray can be found in river systems across the Amazon, and South America. As the Pearl stingray ages, its light brown coloration generally becomes darker while its mottled patterns become less obvious. This shape, coupled with their cartilaginous skeleton, make them very effective bottom-dwelling hunters. Also, once they reach maturity, they can basically breed again as soon as they bring life to the previous babies. Class: Elasmobranchii (sharks and rays) Max. 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