Parana river stingray facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Parana river stingray |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Potamotrygon
|
| Species: |
schuhmacheri
|
The Parana river stingray (scientific name: Potamotrygon schuhmacheri) is a special type of fish that lives in freshwater rivers. It belongs to a family of fish called Potamotrygonidae, which are freshwater stingrays. You can find this unique stingray in the big rivers of South America, like the Paraná and Paraguay River basins. These rivers flow through countries such as Argentina, Paraguay, and possibly Brazil.
Contents
About the Parana River Stingray
The Parana river stingray is a fascinating creature that makes its home in the freshwater systems of South America. Unlike the ocean stingrays you might know, this species lives entirely in rivers. It has a flat, disc-shaped body, which helps it glide along the riverbed.
Where it Lives
This stingray's natural habitat is the rivers of the Paraná and Paraguay basins. These river systems are huge, covering parts of several South American countries. The stingray prefers the bottom of these rivers, where it can find food and shelter.
How it Got its Name
The Parana river stingray was officially described in 1964 by a scientist named Mariano N. Castex. He named this fish in a very special way. It was named to honor Roberto Schümacher, a student from Castex's old high school. Roberto was also a helper in Castex's work. Sadly, Roberto passed away in an accident when he was very young, between 1947 and 1964. Naming the stingray after him was a way to remember his life and contributions.
Facing Challenges
Sadly, the Parana river stingray is facing some difficulties. Its population is threatened by habitat loss. This means that the places where it lives, the rivers, are changing. Things like pollution, building dams, or changes to the river flow can harm its home. Protecting these river habitats is important to help the Parana river stingray survive.
See also
In Spanish: Potamotrygon schuhmacheri para niños
