Potamotrygon Motoro

Datasheet

General Description

"P. motoro, commonly known as Motoro Stingray or by its P01, P03, P044 designations, is a popular member of the Potamotrygonidae family among aquarists. Known for their variable patterning, these stingrays can grow up to 91.4cm in size and require large tank volumes due to their size and predatory nature. Their violent mating behavior necessitates caution in group settings, and they are distinguishable by their claspers, with males possessing this sexual dimorphism. Found in South American freshwater habitats, they are part of a unique group of Elasmobranchs with specialized breathing mechanisms."

Aquarium Setup

"Creating an ideal environment for P. motoro involves a large tank volume of at least 1700 litres with dim lighting preferred. Decor such as bogwood or rocks can be added, but must be secure due to active swimming habits. Choices for substrate range from river sand to aquarium gravel, or opting for no substrate at all. Filtration is crucial, with sump-type systems or external canister filters recommended. Rigorous maintenance, including weekly water changes and high oxygenation levels, is necessary in the tank setup. A tightly-fitting cover is essential to prevent escape, as rays may breach the water surface."

Behaviour

"Stingrays like P. motoro are top predators in their natural habitats, displaying territorial behaviors that make tankmate selection crucial. They thrive best when housed with larger, peaceful companions like Asian or South American arowana, cichlids, or characins. Keeping them in groups may lead to hybridization, suggesting a solitary or carefully planned group setup. Their venomous sting, located on the caudal fin, serves as a defense mechanism, emphasizing the need for caution during handling and maintenance."

Feeding and Diet

"Wild rays feed primarily on fish, invertebrates, worms, and crustaceans, with captive specimens requiring a meaty diet fed at least twice a day. They readily consume live or frozen foods like bloodworms, mussels, and squid. Caution is advised against feeding mammal meat or 'feeder' fish due to potential health risks. Ensuring newly imported rays feed promptly and offering a varied diet is crucial for their well-being and long-term health."

Reproduction & Dimorphism

"P. motoro exhibits matrotrophic viviparity, giving birth to live, fully-formed pups after a gestation period of months. Breeding in captivity requires patience, as rays may take years to mature and select suitable mates. Maintaining compatible pairs and providing ample space and proper conditions for successful mating events are essential. Females may birth 1-8 pups per litter, necessitating removal for their safety and feeding on high-quality diets post-birth."

Habitat and Distribution

"Motoro Stingrays are widely distributed across South America, inhabiting various river systems including the Amazon basin, Orinoco, and Paraná. They frequent sand banks, slow-moving rivers, and flooded forests during the wet season, adapting to different aquatic environments. Their preference for muddy or sandy substrates aligns with their natural habitat, showcasing their versatility in adapting to diverse biotopes."