Bigtooth river stingray

Care at a glance

Overview

This is a large, expensive ray for experienced keepers only, with an adult disc around 50 to 55 cm that demands a very wide tank of at least 1500 litres. Keep spotless water at 24 to 28 C and pH 6.0 to 7.2 with heavy filtration and big, regular water changes. The tail barb is venomous, so treat the fish with respect and avoid risky tankmates. Feed a varied diet of earthworms, prawns, mussel and fish.

In the wild

The black diamond stingray, also called the bigtooth river stingray, is a striking ray with a near-black disc covered in fine white or cream spots. It is heavy-bodied and grows larger and thicker than most common rays. Like its relatives it rests on sand and ambushes prey from the substrate.

Good to know

Potamotrygon henlei is endemic to the Rio Tocantins in Brazil and is prized in the hobby for its high-contrast spotting. It bears live young and, like all river rays, carries a venomous tail barb capable of a severe sting. Spot number and size vary between individuals and are used by keepers to grade fish.

Common questions

Related species

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  Ocellate river stingray

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  19.7 in (50 cm)264 gal (1,000 L)75–82°F (24–28°C)

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  Black devil stingray

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• 

  Blackedge spiny eel

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• 

  Butter catfish

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  17.7 in (45 cm)53 gal (200 L)68–82°F (20–28°C)

• 

  Glass knifefish

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• 

  Narrow-fronted tandan

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  17.7 in (45 cm) · 119 gal (450 L)

  17.7 in (45 cm)119 gal (450 L)70–82°F (21–28°C)