Yellow stingray (EXPERT ONLY)

The Yellow Stingray is a small tropical ray native to the western Atlantic and Caribbean, commonly found in shallow sandy areas and seagrass beds around places like Florida, the Bahamas, and throughout the Caribbean Sea. It stays relatively small compared to many rays, reaching a maximum disk width of about 14 inches (36 cm). In aquariums it requires a large tank with a wide sandy bottom, typically 180 gallons or larger, because rays need floor space rather than height. Ideal water conditions are a temperature of 75–82°F (24–28°C) and salinity of about 1.023–1.025 with excellent filtration and stable marine parameters. Yellow stingrays are carnivores, feeding on small invertebrates such as shrimp, worms, clams, and small crustaceans, and in captivity they are usually fed pieces of shrimp, squid, fish, or other meaty seafood. Their temperament is generally peaceful, but they may eat very small fish or invertebrates they can catch, so they are not reef-safe. They usually do best with calm tankmates that will not nip at them, and because they require pristine water, soft substrate, and specialized care, they are typically recommended for experienced marine aquarists.