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White-blotched river stingray
Creamy spots stand out against a dark disc in this Xingu basin ray.
A dark brown to black disc with pale blotches is the most immediate cue. This freshwater species comes from the Xingu drainage, including the Curuá and Iriri. Black Diamond is a trade variety, not an extra species.
- Adult size
- Up to 70 cm (disc width)
- Water temperature
- 20–29 °C
- Lifespan
- 20 years or more
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Natural habitat
- Inhabits river sandbanks, shallows and slow tributaries over mud or sand, also entering flooded forest and flood-recession lakes and ponds.
Needs specialist floor space as an adult; a small round juvenile is not a small-tank fish. The tail is venomous and small aquatic animals are prey.
Appearance and identification
Compare the pale spots with the orange-ringed pattern of P. motoro. Other dark spotted rays, including P. henlei and P. albimaculata, and hybrids need provenance and fuller morphological checks. Old P14/Itaituba labels do not automatically apply here.
Floor and movement space
Keep a broad turning area. Plan 240 × 90 × 75 cm for an adult or pair. Secure decor, shield heaters and provide filtration and oxygenation suited to a large predator. Keep 20–29°C, preferring the upper end.
Aquarium environment
Avoid sharp rocks. Preserve wide, smooth routes for the disc. Rooted planting may be disturbed or damaged.
Diet and feeding
Eats small fishes, invertebrates, freshwater snails and crabs. Provide varied aquatic animal foods.
Compatibility limits
Small fish and shrimp may be eaten. Avoid companions that harass or attach to the disc. Consider adult floor use and separation options.
Same-species behaviour
Monitor courtship chasing and disc biting and keep separation options. Different species may hybridize.
Similar and related fish
