Itacua Stingray

Potamotrygon itoupava is found in the upper Paraná River drainage of Paraguay and northeastern Argentina. Its disc is pale olive to cream overlaid with a fine, dense network of brownish reticular markings that give it a refined, understated elegance. It inhabits sandy substrates in clear-water rivers and is one of the cooler-water potamotrygonid species, tolerating temperatures down to 20°C. In the trade it appears rarely, typically from specialist South American importers, and commands substantial prices when available. Care follows standard potamotrygonid protocols with the addition of tolerance for slightly lower temperatures. Captive breeding has been achieved in a small number of European specialist facilities. Its name in the aquarium trade as 'Itacua' refers to local Paraguayan naming traditions.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderate (2–12 dGH); zero ammonia/nitrite; large regular water changes. Tank: Minimum 500L, fine sand, wide open floor, efficient sump or canister system. Feeding: Carnivore; earthworms, prawn, mussel, whitebait; adapts to frozen foods well. Breeding: Viviparous; limited captive breeding data; slightly cooler temperatures may trigger reproductive condition. Compatibility: Large, non-aggressive tankmates only; avoid active species that disturb the ray's resting patterns.