Motoro Stingray

The Motoro Stingray, scientifically known as Potamotrygon motoro, belongs to the Oddballs family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 50 cm and have a depressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.

To thrive, the Motoro Stingray requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 750 litres and a tank length of at least 180 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 2–10 dGH. A high water flow is preferred.

The Motoro Stingray is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Adult (Standard) and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.

When setting up an aquarium for the Motoro Stingray, a high water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured.

Classified as semi-aggressive, the Motoro Stingray is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions, and snails will be treated as food rather than tankmates. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.

Motoro Stingray is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide someone who understands its individual space requirements. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially sand.

The most common mistake is treating Motoro Stingray like any other community fish and skipping the soft sand it needs to forage safely. Another frequent problem is forcing it into an over-busy community when it would do better with more room or more deliberate tankmate choices.

The Motoro Stingray is a predatory species that will readily consume small fish, so nano or bite-sized tankmates should be avoided, will hunt and eat ornamental shrimp, making it unsuitable for shrimp-focused setups, actively feeds on snails and can be used as a natural snail population control, and will eat fry, so breeding efforts in the same tank are unlikely to succeed.