Ocellate River Stingray

Potamotrygon ocellata is a relatively small potamotrygonid, reaching only around 30cm disc width at maturity, from the coastal river drainages of northern Brazil and French Guiana. Despite its modest size, the pattern is exceptional: vivid orange ocelli with dark borders against a cream background create a starfield effect that rivals any tropical fish. In the aquarium it requires the same exacting water quality standards as all rays, but its smaller size means tank requirements are somewhat reduced. It has been bred in captivity and responds well to live and frozen invertebrates. Its small size also makes it possible to house in a dedicated display with a small number of compatible species rather than requiring a public-aquarium scale setup.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 5.5–6.8, very soft (1–5 dGH); zero ammonia/nitrite, nitrate ideally below 10 ppm. Tank: Minimum 350L, fine sand, open swimming areas, subdued lighting preferred. Feeding: Carnivore; small earthworms, bloodworm, brine shrimp, diced prawn; small frequent meals preferred over large ones. Breeding: Viviparous; small litters of 2–5 pups; one of the more achievable rays to breed given its size. Compatibility: Keep only with very calm, large-bodied fish that pose no threat; avoid any nippy species.