Ray Info...

[808crx]

I have been researching about rays and reading alot of information about them but I fugure I am not actually talking to people who own them. So before I get into it and do misatkes I will really regret, I figure I should ask you all about getting a pair. I am looking to get two motoros.
Exactly what's the best substrate, food, filtration, anything else I will need. If you guys know of very good explanitory sites please post the links for me.
I hope you guys can help me out, if so thanks in advance!

 

[Deathcurl]

You're post touches on a very broad subject. Check the stickied threads above this post for some good starter information, then ask some specific questions.

 

[808crx]

Okay man. Thanks alot... I will try this... By the way can you answer the few questions i posted above?

 

[JD7.62]

For food, a varied diet is best. Market shrimp, squid, and nightcralwers are good and relativly cheap choices. Remember to buy in bulk as rays eat a TON and then MORE!!

Since you will need a large tanke the obvious choice for filtration is a w/d with a combination of cannister and or HOBs because you can never have too much filtration. Oh and above else WATER CHANGES!!

For substrate I prefer bare bottom. Its easy to clean and IMO actually looks quite nice to the eye! You can go with sand or gravel just make sure it isnt abrhasive on your rays underside.

If you want a pair of motoros you will need a large tank. Most likely in the 250+ range. Ive heard of them breeding in a 180 but for a fish that gets as big as a tire Id say that would be cramped!

Anyway read up and ask more ?s. Personally Id skip on the motoro. They arent the cheapest though not too expensive and are hardy but IMO not the best choice for beginers due to their size and price. I would suggest a humerosa/Orb or Yepezi. Somtimes those three species are collectivly called "Guyana" rays. They, from most reports, stay a little on the small side (stilla big fish though!), and are quite a bit cheaper so if you loose one (hopefully not but most of us have!) it wont be a huge hit financially.

GOod luck!

 

[Deathcurl]

For rays:

Substrate: Bare-bottomed tank

Food: A varied diet is best (Cut fish, Shrimp, Squid, Beef heart, Nightcrawlers, Blackworms, etc.

Filtration: Wet/Dry is best for gas exchange & biofiltration. I also have a couple of overhang filters to help with mechanical filtration.

References: Try to get your hands on the Aqualog Book or The Barrons Book.

This forum has plenty of resources which will answer any question you may have. Search and you will find your answers .

 

[808crx]

Hey I really appreciate all the help guys I will post more Q's if I don't find the answers thanks guys!

 

[Deathcurl]

I think it's great that you are doing the research before diving into rays . Feel free to ask. There are a lot of experienced ray keepers here.

 

[808crx]

Thanks alot man! Yeah I figured I'd better check out the water before I go and dive in it! If you know what I am saying! Lol!
Also I'm still trying to figure out where I could order the right sand on the net... Do you guys know? Also I would like to line the lower back and left side of the tank with smooth river rock and pebbles... Is this okay? There are no sharp edges or abrasive spots. Please let me know where I can order the correct sand and if this is okay...
Thanks Again Man!

 

[kody1192]

Thanks alot man! Yeah I figured I'd better check out the water before I go and dive in it! If you know what I am saying! Lol!
Also I'm still trying to figure out where I could order the right sand on the net... Do you guys know? Also I would like to line the lower back and left side of the tank with smooth river rock and pebbles... Is this okay? There are no sharp edges or abrasive spots. Please let me know where I can order the correct sand and if this is okay...
Thanks Again Man!

ya as long as the rocks are smooth(which river rocks are) they should be fine...as for sand i would get estes its the best kind for rays...i cant remember the site i got mine from ill check if i find it ill let u know...btw what size tank u got?

on a side note nice collection of dogs..

 

[Deathcurl]

Also, be careful that there aren't areas where debris can get trapped between/under the river stones. The decaying matter can alter your water chemistry.