Fin's Fish Guide
The Longtail river stingray (Plesiotrygon iwamae) is a freshwater fish of the family Potamotrygonidae that grows up to 58 cm.
Description
The longtail river stingray is a freshwater stingray (Potamotrygonidae) from fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 58 cm across and has a round, flattened, drab-brown disc and an extraordinarily long, thread-like tail with a venomous spine. As a bottom-dweller it often lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms of rivers and searches for molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. The tail spine can inflict a very painful wound; never walk on sandy bottoms without shuffling.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longtail river stingray?
The Longtail river stingray has an irregular in shape body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Longtail river stingray live?
The Longtail river stingray lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Ecuador
How big does the Longtail river stingray get?
The Longtail river stingray grows to a maximum of about 58 cm.
Is the Longtail river stingray dangerous to humans?
The Longtail river stingray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Leave the water and rinse the wound with clean water; do not remove embedded spine fragments on the spot. Immerse the affected part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45C) to ease pain. A sting to the torso, chest or abdomen is an emergency: call medical help immediately and check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Potamotrygonidae
Want the complete picture on the Longtail river stingray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longtail river stingray is one of 12,519 species in the app.