Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A captivating animal that demands expert aquarium care and large, open swimming spaces. Scott W. Michael
Overview
Famously beguiling, this beautiful ray can be difficult to feed and will typically perish for unknown reasons. Its track record in home aquariums is dismal.
It requires lots of living space (upward of 500 gallons [1894 L])—more than afforded by most home aquaria. For experts and big-tank owners only.
Unfortunately, there are no marine rays with adult sizes appropriate for the average home saltwater system.
Family: Dasyatidae
Other common name(s):
- Bluespotted Stingray, Bluespotted Ray
Native range:
Habitat: Inhabits the fringes of coral reefs and lagoons, seeking shelter in caves and under ledges. Needs a broad expanse of uncluttered sand bottom and at least one hiding place under a rocky overhang.
Maximum length: 70 cm (28 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 1,894 L (500 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (75 °F) - 28 °C (82 °F)
General swimming level: Bottom.
Feeding
Carnivore. In the wild, it feeds on crustaceans (shrimp and crabs), worms, mollusks. In the aquarium will accept marine crustacean and fish flesh, clams and mussels.
Can be difficult to feed. Offer live grass shrimps or marine worms to initiate a feeding response. Some individuals will accept pieces of thawed/fresh shrimp, scallop, or marine fish flesh impaled on a feeding stick or dropped onto the substrate. Feed once a day.
Aquarium Compatibility
Will eat ornamental crustaceans and small fishes. May be picked on or harassed by large, aggressive species.
Special Care
Very sensitive to low levels of copper and contaminants in tap water; use only reverse osmosis or deionized water.