sting rays

[johnbrooks]

As usual, I am not sure if I am on the right page? It said something about STINGS, so I know stingrays have stingers.

Went to Gulf Shores Ala a couple of years, ago. A LOT of small string rays were swimming very close to the shore. With a long pole and net you could catch a lot of them. At the time, I had no idea people kept them in aquariums, or pet stores sold them.

People were catching them and taking a close look and releasing them. Most people (like me) were just afraid of stepping on one. This is the first time I have seen, this many, this close. Maybe, it had something to do with the oil spill?

Is it legal to catch one or two and bring back to Nashville?

JUST WONDERING.

[angel]

To catch any fish you have to have a license or permit. It varies from state to state what is required and how much it costs. If they were in salt water they're salt water rays and may be harder to transport. Not sure. But freshwater ones exist too. We have one. He's still very delicate, but salt water is harder to balance. The water could change too drastically on the way home and they'd be toast. I'd be tempted but afraid.

[jon carman]

From what I hear, for the average hobbyist, it is highly illegal and there could be prison time involved. Especially around Florida, and the farther south you go the stricter it gets because of the protected corals and such.

I also wouldn't think it would live unless you are an advanced saltwater specialist. I have enough trouble keeping captive bred clownfish alive.