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Potamotrygon laticeps, Garman, 1913

Origin:Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina.

Etymology: Unk.

Synonyms:Paratrygon laticeps

First import: Unk

Description:See picture.

Care: Large tank, 500-1000 liter, pH neutral to slightly acidic, hardness below 15 dGH. Temperature around 24 degrees. Frequent waterchanges and well filtered water(huge filters!)are necessary, the fish pollute a lot since they produce pure urine with their kidneys. No or a few hardy plants, combined with driftwood or stones on the sides of the tank, although this sin't necessary for the animals. A thick sandy soil in which the fish can dig themselves in is a requirement, as well as a large free space(minimum 3 times the bodysize).

Temperature: 23-28 degrees.

Feeding: Snails and molluscs, also frozen. The fish can be accustomed to eat beefheart and fish meat.

Size: Up to 70cm.

pH: 6.0-7.5

Breeding: Vivipair!, the fish bring live young into the world. In the mating season(sept-nov) the male will "grab" the female with it's "claws", and inseminate her. Up to 7 fry have been reported in Paratrygon motoro, which will be carried by the mother for 4-5 months, before they are born.

Sexual dimorphism:Males have very characteristic organs.

Prices: 50-100€

Additional: The fish wil attack, and can cause serious wounds, which may take a long time to heal. Wear thick leather gloves when handling the tank or the fish.

Picture references:Picture 1,2 and 3: E. Naus

References: Fenner, R. (1999): De zoetwaterstekelroggen van Zuid-Amerika; Het Aquarium, Jrg 69, Nr 7, p.p. 255-256.