耶氏江魟 · Maracaibo River Stingray

Overview

Potamotrygon yepezi belongs to freshwater systems around Lake Maracaibo, rather than the brackish lake itself. Trade identifications are unreliable, especially for fish exported from Peru under this name. Confirming identity is more useful than treating a “teacup ray” label as a size guarantee.

Distribution & habitat

Its native range comprises waters surrounding and feeding Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela. Despite the lake’s connection to the Gulf of Venezuela, the ray occurs in the surrounding freshwater habitat and apparently prefers soft mud or sand.

Aquarium setup

Suggested adult housing starts around 210 by 90 by 60 cm, also proposed for a pair. Preserve a broad open floor, anchor heavy decor, and keep lighting restrained. Fine sand permits burial; bare floors ease cleaning but remove refuge. Plants may be damaged.

Provide large, mature biological filtration. A sump isolates heaters to prevent contact burns; adequately sized canisters are alternatives. About four turnovers hourly, strong oxygenation through surface movement, and weekly changes around half the water are general guidance. Fit a secure lid against surface feeding activity.

Diet & feeding

Care can follow the varied animal-food approach used for other freshwater rays: small worms, Artemia, and krill for juveniles, then suitable shellfish, shrimp, squid, fish, and earthworms. At least two daily meals are generally suggested.

If a thin newcomer refuses frozen food, use appropriate live worms to restore condition before converting it. Avoid mammalian or avian meat and routine feeder fish.

Behaviour & compatibility

Choose peaceful companions beyond swallowing size, preferably using upper water. Territorial fish may stress rays, and suckermouth catfish can damage the disc. Different river-ray species may interbreed, making accurate identification especially important in breeding groups.

Sexual dimorphism

Males have paired claspers extending backward from the inner margins of the pelvic fins. Juvenile claspers are smaller but still visible.

Breeding

Related-species breeding practice involves internal fertilization, followed by yolk use and maternal nourishment before live birth. Pair compatibility is not guaranteed. A larger well-conditioned female and ready access to separation facilities help manage courtship biting.

Genus-level care includes generous pregnancy feeding, separate care for newborns, frequent small meals after yolk absorption, and regular water changes. Repeatedly breeding females require recovery periods. These are references from related rays, not an established captive protocol for this species.

Notes

The Peruvian “Nazca” trade form should not simply be equated with this species, and the tentative P55 association also needs caution. Both attached and shed spines are hazardous. Use an appropriate solid container or large fish bag rather than nets or direct handling, and seek medical care after a sting. Check feeding and avoid overlooking sunken areas, prominent pelvic structures, or curled disc margins.