OBSERVATION OF FRESHWATER STINGRAY Dasyatis garouaensis (STAUCH AND BLANC, 1962) IN FRESHWATER AQUARIA  

Specimens of the freshwater stingray species, Dasyatis garouaensis, native to River Niger, were collected from the wild to access their survival and performance in aquarium conditions.  Dasyatis garouaensis is relatively unknown in the aquarium industry but is an excellent candidate for aquarium keeping due to its relative small size. Measures have not been put in place to conserve the species in their natural habitats.  Twelve individuals of disc width 140mm - 295mm were acclimated and kept in three freshwater aquaria of 500 liters and observed over a period of six months. The individuals acclimated very well, accepted formulated fish feed and exhibited normal stingray behavior. Capture injuries were fully healed in about two weeks in all individuals.