The subject about hybrid's and breeding pure breeds.Was spoken about at the fw ray symposium at Chicago back in august. The problem is most of the species id is in question because of there Biology there seems to be more morph or sub species then known about in the past. That coupled with the fact that there is not a dna/blood Id test that works to help figure it out.....so it is almost impossable to id blood lines at this point.
But there is good news AZA is working to trace back husbandry from past display Rays but its hard work because they are going through notes and records from years past to sort it out. I know several people is spearheading that effort at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.They also are chipping the rays that they have to build up history on there rays. Also Frank a well known commercial ray breeder is doing the same.
IMO I think the more captive rays are researched and learned about the better the husbandry will be. It is my full intent for my company to provide as much research into the subject. This is my Company's mission statement
The primary purpose of Dark Rivers Hatchery LLP will be the importation of exotic aquatic creatures with the emphasis being on freshwater stingrays from South America and Asia. These stingray's will be used for the purpose of live biological studies designed to enhance natural procreation of the species in a captive state. Successful pups will then be sold to aquatic retail stores, public aquariums, zoos, and individual enthusiasts. Proceeds will be used to further biological studies and conservation of the species in its natural environments.
for more info please contact me.
Jason Cooley
CEO/OWNER
Dark Rivers Hatchery LLP
Harpers Ferry,WV
darkrivershatchery@yahoo.com
