Southern Ray (Expert)

Quick Stats

Description

The Southern Ray, or Dasyatis americana, is an impressive species known for its graceful, flattened body and striking appearance. Typically grayish-brown with distinctive white spots, this ray is native to the coastal waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, often found in sandy or muddy substrates where it can easily camouflage.

Reaching sizes up to 3 feet, the Southern Ray requires a spacious environment—ideally a minimum of 300 gallons—to accommodate its size and swimming behavior. As a carnivore, it thrives on a diet of meaty foods, including shrimp, fish, and other seafood. Due to its dietary needs and large size, careful consideration must be given to tank mates, as this species is not compatible with reef environments and should not be kept with smaller fish or invertebrates.