Fin's Fish Guide
The Largespot river stingray (Potamotrygon falkneri) is a freshwater fish of the family Potamotrygonidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The largespot river stingray is a freshwater stingray (Potamotrygonidae) from rivers of the Parana and Paraguay basin in South America. The species reaches about 40 cm across the disc and has a round, flat, brown disc with numerous pale eye-spots that camouflage it on the sandy bottom. Half-buried it searches for molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. In its whip-like tail it carries one or more venomous, serrated spines that give a very painful, slow-healing wound; it stings only in defence when touched or stepped on.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Largespot river stingray?
The Largespot river stingray has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Largespot river stingray live?
The Largespot river stingray lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Peru
How big does the Largespot river stingray get?
The Largespot river stingray grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Largespot river stingray dangerous to humans?
The Largespot river stingray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. A sting from the tail's venomous spine is very painful: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C). Because of the risk of a deep wound and retained tissue, medical assessment is advised; update tetanus protection and watch for signs of infection.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Potamotrygon
More from the family Potamotrygonidae
Want the complete picture on the Largespot river stingray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Largespot river stingray is one of 12,519 species in the app.