Polka-dot Stingray

Potamotrygon leopoldi is endemic to the Rio Xingu in the Para state of Brazil, one of the most distinctive and biologically unique river systems in South America. Its striking black-and-white colouration and restricted range make it both expensive and in need of careful source verification. It demands the same specialised care as all freshwater stingrays but commands exceptional visual impact.

Water: 26-30°C, pH 5.5-7.0, very soft and warm; mimics Rio Xingu warm, fast-flowing conditions. Tank: Minimum 800L, very large footprint, coarse clean sand, good water movement with strong filtration. Feeding: Carnivore; prawns, earthworms, mussel, fish; all food placed directly on the substrate. Behaviour: Semi-aggressive toward other rays; venomous tail — all maintenance needs extreme caution. Compatibility: Large, robust fish that do not compete on the substrate; large catfish, large arowana.