Tiger river stingray facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tiger river stingray |
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The tiger river stingray (scientific name: Potamotrygon tigrina) is a type of freshwater ray. It belongs to the Potamotrygonidae family. This amazing animal lives only in the upper Amazon basin in northeastern Peru. It prefers both dark, tea-colored rivers and murky, sediment-filled rivers.
Sadly, the tiger river stingray is an endangered species. This means there are not many left in the wild. People sometimes keep them in aquariums. They have even been bred in captivity. However, these rays are quite sensitive and need special care.
About the Tiger River Stingray
The tiger river stingray is a fascinating creature. It is known for its unique patterns, which look a bit like tiger stripes. This is how it got its common name.
What It Looks Like
We don't know the exact maximum size of the tiger river stingray. But we do know it can grow quite large. Its body, which is called a disc, can be at least 70 cm (28 in) wide. That's about 27 inches across! In aquariums, they can start having babies when their disc is about 48 cm (19 in) wide.
Its Family and Relatives
The tiger river stingray is closely related to another ray called P. schroederi. That ray lives in the Rio Negro and Orinoco rivers.
Before scientists officially named the tiger river stingray, some people used a different name, P. menchacai. But this was a mistake. P. menchacai is actually another name for the largespot river stingray (P. falkneri). So, the correct scientific name for the tiger river stingray is Potamotrygon tigrina.
See also
In Spanish: Potamotrygon tigrina para niños
