Pearl Stingray (Female 5.5”)

Scientific Name: Potamotrygon jabuti 

• Maximum Size & Lifespan:

  • Males can reach a 15-18" disc size. Females can reach 20–24 inches (50–60 cm) disc diameter, with tail extending further.

  • Lifespan averages 15–20 years in captivity with proper care.

• Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes & Water Parameters:

  • Minimum tank size: 220-300 gallons for a single male adult, 4-500 gallons+ systems required for groups. Females will need a 3-400 gallon tank as they get ~25% larger than males.

  • Footprint is more important than height; tanks should be at least 8 ft x 3 ft for adults.

  • Weekly water changes of 30–50% are essential due to high waste output.

  • Water parameters:

    • Temperature: 78–84°F (25–29°C)

    • pH: 6.0–7.5

    • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)

    • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm (stingrays are highly sensitive)

    • Nitrate: <20 ppm preferred

• Care:

  • Requires very fine, soft sand substrate (or bare bottom) to prevent abrasions to the underside.

  • Strong filtration and high oxygenation are mandatory.

  • Tank should provide open swimming space with minimal sharp décor.

  • Cover the aquarium tightly—stingrays can climb and jump.

• Tankmates:

  • Best with other large, peaceful fish that won’t nip or outcompete them for food.

  • Arowana, Datnoids, Peacock Bass, Large Severum, Clown Knife, Silver Dollars and Tinfoil Barbs

  • Avoid tiny fish they will be eaten. Also aggressive fish like Oscar and Jaguar Cichlids should be avoided

• Diet:

  • Carnivorous; primarily feeds on meaty foods.

  • Ideal diet includes Shrimp, Sinking Carnivore/massivore pellets, Silver Sides, and Bloodworms

  • Feed 1–2 times daily, removing uneaten food promptly.

  • Young stingrays may need frequent small feedings; adults can be maintained with larger meals.

• Breeding:

  • Sexual dimorphism: males possess claspers near the pelvic fins, females lack them.

  • The male will bite and hold onto the female and insert 1/2 claspers
  • 2-3 Times Daily Feedings for optimized nutrients for reproduction

  • Pearl Stingrays give live birth

  • Gestation: around 90–120 days.

  • Females will give birth to 2–8 pups typically.