About the Black Diamond Stingray

The Black Diamond Stingray is the crown jewel of freshwater stingrays. Originating from the Xingu River in Brazil, this selectively bred variant of the Leopoldi stingray is renowned for its intense black and white contrast. High-quality specimens display a jet-black body with bright, symmetrical white spots, often surrounded by a "dusty" halo. The white spots can be so bright they appear to glow, creating a diamond-like effect.

Appearance

Black Diamonds have a round, flat disc with a dark black base color. The spots are pure white and can vary in size and pattern. In premium specimens, the spots are large, evenly distributed, and may form "pave" patterns. The ventral side is typically white. Females tend to be larger and rounder, while males are smaller with claspers. They have a long, whip-like tail with a venomous spine, used for defense.

Size & Growth

Black Diamond stingrays can reach up to 24 inches in disc diameter and over 36 inches in total length. They are fast growers and require a large aquarium. They can live 15-20 years with proper care.

Tank Requirements

A minimum tank size of 300 gallons is recommended for a single adult Black Diamond, with larger tanks for multiples. The tank should be wide and long (at least 8' x 3') to provide ample floor space. Soft, sandy substrate is essential to protect their undersides. Strong filtration and high water flow are necessary, as they produce a lot of waste. Regular water changes (30-50% weekly) are crucial. Water parameters: temperature 78-86°F, pH 6.0-7.5, soft to moderately hard water. They are sensitive to ammonia and nitrites.

Diet

Black Diamonds are carnivores and need a protein-rich diet:

• Live or frozen foods: earthworms, blackworms, bloodworms, shrimp, small fish
• High-quality sinking carnivore pellets
• Chopped seafood like squid, mussels, and fish fillets

Feed adults 2-3 times a week, juveniles daily. Variety is essential for health and color.

Compatibility

Black Diamonds are generally peaceful but will eat any fish that fits in their mouth. Suitable tank mates include large, peaceful fish such as arowanas, large catfish (e.g., Plecos, Tigrinus), and larger cichlids. Avoid small fish, aggressive fish, and fin-nippers. They can be kept with other stingrays if the tank is large enough and there is plenty of space.

Black Diamond vs. Leopoldi

While both are related, Black Diamonds are selectively bred for extreme contrast and larger, brighter spots. Pure Leopoldi typically have smaller, more uniform spots and a brownish-black base. Black Diamonds are considered a high-end designer ray and command higher prices.

Why Buy from Imperial Dragon Arowana?

We hand-select each Black Diamond Stingray for its pattern, color, and health. Our rays are captive-bred or sourced from reputable breeders, quarantined, and feeding on a varied diet. We offer expert support and a live arrival guarantee. Located in Tucson, Arizona, we ship nationwide.

Call 520-809-7055 for current availability and pricing – these premium rays are in high demand.