A spectacular but highly demanding freshwater stingray native to South America, instantly recognizable by its orange-spot 'peacock' pattern. They are massive, heavy-polluting predators that require huge aquariums with pristine water quality. A soft sand substrate is absolutely mandatory to prevent severe bacterial infections on their delicate underbellies. Note: They possess a venomous tail stinger.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Adult (Standard)
Fully grown adult Motoro Stingray. Disk width can reach up to 50cm (20 inches). They require a massive custom aquarium with an immense footprint (at least 180x90cm / 6x3ft) and heavy-duty biological filtration to handle their extreme waste output.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Fully Grown, Breeder
Juvenile (Grow-out)
A young stingray 'pup' (often misleadingly sold as 'teacup' rays). While they can temporarily be housed in smaller aquariums, they grow incredibly fast and will require an immediate upgrade plan. They need multiple feedings of high-protein foods daily.
Differs in 6 traits from base species
Also known as: Pup, Baby Ray, Teacup
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🟢Ideal Tank MatesMotoro Stingray Care Guide Summary
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. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
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.
Motoro Stingray Habitat Setup
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. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
Motoro Stingray Compatibility Notes
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 Feeding & Diet Considerations
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. Find quality Motoro Stingray fish food for this species.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motoro Stingray
How big does Motoro Stingray get?
Motoro Stingray (Potamotrygon motoro) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 50 cm. They have a depressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Motoro Stingray need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 750 litres and a tank length of at least 180 cm are recommended for Motoro Stingray. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Motoro Stingray need?
Motoro Stingray thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–28°C, a pH between 6 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 2–10 dGH. A high water flow is preferred.
Is Motoro Stingray peaceful or aggressive?
Motoro Stingray is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 5 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Motoro Stingray live alone?
Yes, Motoro Stingray can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Is Motoro Stingray safe with shrimp?
No. Motoro Stingray is known to eat ornamental shrimp and is not recommended for shrimp tanks. Even larger shrimp species like Amano Shrimp may be at risk.
Will Motoro Stingray eat snails?
Yes. Motoro Stingray actively feeds on snails. While this can be useful for controlling pest snail populations, it means decorative snails should not be housed with this species.
Does Motoro Stingray have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Motoro Stingray benefits from sand (sifters) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
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