Motoro Ray
Also known as the Orange Spotted Stingray, is one of the most
popular freshwater stingrays since it is one of the easier ones to keep. It is native to the Amazon Basin and feeds on crustaceans,
molluks and small fish.
In captivity, they may be fed small fish like feeder fish and
shrimp from the market. They will also readily eat cut pieces of fish and beef heart. Make sure to remove pieces of uneaten
food so the water does not get spoiled.
Water quality is very important for freshwater stingrays, and
about a quarter of the water in the tank should be changed every week or so. A good biological filter is also a must. Stingrays
can be burned by standard aquarium heaters so be careful in positioning it away from its reach or using external heating.
The bottom of the tank can either be bare (glass) for easier
cleaning or sandy for a more athestic look. Either one is fine for the ray, as long as the sand is soft and not sharp gravel
that can cut it bottom.
Stingrays are carnivorous and will eat most other tropical fish
that can fit into their mouth. Chose tankmates carefully. Clown loaches (if large enough) and Arowanas are popular tankmates
for stingrays since they make quite a striking picture together. Large and peaceful fish can usually be good tankmates with
freshwater stingrays.
Water temperature should be kept warm at 78 to 82 degrees (F)
and they can tolerate even warmer without problem. Though the water in their habitat is acidic, they are surprizingly resiliant
to water hardness and a high PH.
This is only the very basic information on keeping the rays,
and novices should consult more detailed information. These are not goldfish, and require greater attention to keep healthy.
The books offered in this page in the Stingray category are a great asset for keepers of all knowledge levels.
|