Freshwater stingray - Himantura signifer
Scientific name: Himantura signifer
Common name: Freshwater stingray
Family: Dasyatidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 55 - 60 cm (21.65 - 23.62 inch)
014
Recommended pH range for the species: 6.3 - 7.4
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 3 - 15°N (53.57 - 267.86ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 21 - 25 °C (69.8 - 77°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: South Asia
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller
Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels
Food and feeding
Meaty foods are necessary for this fish. Shelled shrimps, chopped earthworms and chopped fresh fish are ideal.
Origin
Asia; Freshwater stingrays are found in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Sexing
Male specimens will have claspers at the front; these are used as part of the breeding process.
Breeding
It is a bit of a mystery as to what triggers a pair of rays to mate in the aquarium but it does happen. The male will start to nip at the female and this can be quite intense, the best way to avoid serious injury is to add a larger female to the male. When the female is ready the male will slide underneath her and mating will take place. The pregnancy can last from 100-160 days and the “pups” will be born fully formed.
Lifespan
Maximum life span is unknown.
Short description
Freshwater stingrays demand high water quality with excellent filtration. They are best kept in a species tank due to their special requirements. Some species of plecs may acquire a taste for the rays mucus.
Important
This fish should be kept in really large aquariums with adequate crowd. No small Guppies or small fish.
Pictures
Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.
