Fin's Fish Guide
The Magdalena river stingray (Potamotrygon magdalenae) is a freshwater fish of the family Potamotrygonidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The Magdalena river stingray is a freshwater stingray (Potamotrygonidae) endemic to the Magdalena drainage of Colombia. The species grows to about 35 cm wide and has a round, flattened, brown body disc with a pale-spotted pattern. The tail carries a serrated venomous spine. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms of rivers and crushes molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. It is not aggressive, but stepping on the tail gives an extremely painful, venomous wound; locally a feared fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Magdalena river stingray?
The Magdalena river stingray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Magdalena river stingray live?
The Magdalena river stingray lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Colombia
How big does the Magdalena river stingray get?
The Magdalena river stingray grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Magdalena river stingray dangerous to humans?
The Magdalena river stingray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not step on the tail or grab the fish by the tail. For a sting: immediately immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C, not scalding) for 30-90 minutes to break down the protein venom; have any retained spine fragments removed. Pain is severe: always seek medical help and check tetanus status.
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 Magdalena river stingray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Magdalena river stingray is one of 12,519 species in the app.