Potomotrygon motoro (aka Ocellate River Stingray)

Description

The body of an average adult measures about 12 inches long, and its tail adds another 8 inches. The barbed spine at the end of the tail produces a nasty venom which can cause severe pain to those unfortunate enough to disturb one of these normally placid animals.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is found in the shallower waters of the Amazon River Basin.

Diet

Worms, crustaceans, and mollusks that live in the mud of the river bottom make up the principal parts of this stingray's diet.

Reproduction

Up to 12 live young are born per litter. Baby stingrays are miniature versions of adults, complete with stinger.

Scientific Classification

phylum Chordata
subphylum Vertebrata
class Chondrichthyes
subclass Elasmobranchii
order Rajiformes
family Potamotrygonidae
genus & species Potomotrygon motoro

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This page was last updated on May 06, 2017.