Eastern Fiddler Stingray

The Eastern Fiddler Stingray (Trygonorhina fasciata) is a semi-aggressive species that is not reef-safe, admired for its unique banjo-shaped body, sandy brown coloration with darker mottled patterns, and unusual head disc that resembles a violin or fiddle. This species is fascinating to aquarists due to its distinctive shape and bottom-dwelling behavior. Males typically develop claspers, or reproductive organs, near their pelvic fins and are generally smaller and slimmer in body size, while females and juveniles grow larger with broader bodies and are often more robust in appearance.

They can reach about 45–50 inches (up to around four feet) in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 500–1,000 gallons depending on individual size. A deep fine sandbed is important for burrowing, along with open swimming space and some rockwork for shade or resting areas, though sharp structures should be avoided to prevent injury to the ray’s delicate underside. Stable water parameters are critical, with salinity maintained between 1.020 and 1.025, temperature between 72 and 79°F, and pH from 8.1 to 8.4. A secure lid is also necessary, as stingrays are known to jump or climb the glass.

Their diet should consist of meaty marine foods such as mysis shrimp, krill, silversides, squid, clams, and other crustaceans. They will not thrive on pellets or flake foods and must be fed a varied fresh or frozen diet. With proper care and a very large system, the Eastern Fiddler Stingray makes a rare and impressive showpiece for expert marine aquarists.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.