Jaguar Ray
(Potamotrygon sp.)
Habitat: Freshwater Rivers |
Exhibit
Gallery: Sharks: Amazon
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| Freshwater rays are well adapted to life on the river floor. Their mouth and gills are located underneath extremely flat, circular bodies, which makes them efficient hunters as they stealthily cruise along the bottom in search of small fishes and crustaceans. Freshwater rays grow to about three feet in length and are found in river habitats throughout South America. |
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| Little is known about the life history and population status of most freshwater rays. Their limited geographic range and fragile habitat make them vulnerable. |
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| A sharp spine at the base of the tail can deliver a painful sting. |
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| Slurping up prey from a river bottom also means getting a mouthful of sand or mud. But rays have spiracles (like a blowhole) behind their eyes, from which they squirt out excess material. |
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