Fiddler Stingray

 Quick Care Facts

• Care Level: Expert   • Temperament: Aggressive   • Maximum Size: 36"
• Minimum Tank Size: 400 gallons   • Water Conditions: 72-78° F; dKH 8-12, sg 1.020-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4
• Diet: Carnivore   • Origin: Indian Ocean, Australia
• Family: Rhinobatidae   • Species: Rays   • Aquarium Type: Fish Only

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The Fiddler Stingray originates from the Coral Sea, and is brown in coloration with geometric black or dark brown markings covering the whole of its body. The Fiddler Stingray is attractive in appearance and is not overly aggressive, which allows it to be kept with other larger fish species. Due to the adult size of the Fiddler Stingray a very large aquarium (400 gallons plus) is required to properly house it.

The tail spine is venomous, but is only used for protection when the Fiddler Stingray feels threatened. However, caution should be exercised at all times when working around this species; as well as, when netting it, or when it is not visible and maintenance is performed in the aquarium. Both because of the size and the feeding habits (feeds on crustaceans and mollusks) the Fiddler Stingray is not suitable for reef aquariums and should be limited to very large fish only aquariums.

The Fiddler Stingray is brown in coloration with geometric black or dark brown markings covering the whole of its body. The body is mostly round with a long tail with impressive finnage and a stinger.

The Fiddler Stingray is not a very hardy species and should only be kept by experienced hobbyists who own a very large aquarium. A 400-gallon aquarium with at least a three feet from front to back is necessary for an adult of the species. The aquarium top should also be tightly covered to prevent this species from jumping out of the aquarium. The Fiddler Stingray spends a lot of time on the aquarium bottom and will need a soft substrate, as it is prone to covering itself as a form of camouflage. Sand is recommended as a coarser substrate will scratch its abdomen and could cause infections. The Fiddler Stingray should never be exposed to copper-based medications.

When first introduced into the aquarium, the Fiddler Stingray should be fed small pieces of cleaned squid, live saltwater feeder shrimp or ghost shrimps. Live food should be used to entice the Fiddler Stingray to eat, when it is adjusting to aquarium life. Then it may be fed shrimp, scallops or pieces of fresh marine fish, once it has adjusted to life in the aquarium.

Caution - This species is Venomous, and should be handled accordingly as these animals have an extremely painful sting. If you do get stung immediately soak it in hot water and call a doctor!