Rays

Having a stingray isn’t just cool—it’s a big responsibility. These amazing creatures need big, well thought out tanks and lots of attention. Before you bring one home you need to research their space requirements, tank setup and diet to make sure they thrive.

Setting Up a Proper Ray Habitat

Tank Size:

Juvenile rays will grow quickly, so plan for their adult size. 

  • Inactive species: The tank should be 0.75 times as wide as the ray’s full-grown length and 2–2.5 times as long.
  • Active species: Require 1.5 times the width and 4–5 times the length.
  • Tall tanks aren’t ideal—wide, open swimming space is best.

Substrate: 

Fine sand or aragonite is essential, as rough gravel can injure their sensitive undersides.

Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 70–80°F (some species prefer cooler waters in the 60s).
  • Salinity: 1.020–1.026 specific gravity.
  • pH: 7.8–8.3 (adjustments must be slow, as rays are sensitive to sudden changes).

Choosing Tank Mates & Feeding Rays

  • Good Tank Mates: Moray eels, squirrelfish, groupers, gobies, snappers, and some larger invertebrates like cowries and cleaner shrimp.
  • Avoid: Triggers, puffers, butterflyfish and large angelfish—they will harass or injure your ray.
  • Diet: Fresh seafood is best—feed earthworms, snails, squid, shrimp, clams, sardines and herring for proper nutrition.

Rays are rewarding but require planning and commitment. If you’re up for the challenge check out our selection and find the one that’s right for your tank!