White-blotched river stringray in exhibit

White-blotched River Stingray

Scientific Name
Potamotrygon leopoldi
Class
Chondrichthyes
Order
Rajiformes
Range
Xingu River Basin in Northern Brazil
Habitat
Rocky river bottoms
Estimated Wild Population
n/a
White-blotched river stingray in exhibit Endangered Status Graph - Data Deficient Endangered Status Graph - Data Deficient

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Physical Description

White-blotched river stingrays are black with white spots across the top of their body and tail. Their enlarged pectoral fins make them look like floating discs. At maturity, they average about 16 inches across, but individuals can reach up to 30 inches. Their mouth and gills are located on their underside, allowing them to skim the river bottom for food. They primarily feed on small invertebrates, fish, snails, and crabs.

Interesting Fact 1

White-blotched river stingrays have higher fertility compared to other freshwater stingrays. They can produce up to 12 pups in a single litter.

Interesting Fact 2

The bright polka dots on their black skin helps them blend into sun-dappled streams.

Interesting Fact 3

These stingrays hide from predators under sand or gravel, but can also use their tail barb to defend themselves.

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