Hematological parameters of freshwater stingrays from the lower river negro, Amazonas, Brazil

Freshwater stingrays of the subfamily Potamotrygoninae represent a unique group of elasmobranchs exclusively adapted to freshwater environments in South America. Despite their ecological and socioeconomic importance, significant gaps remain in our understanding of their biology and distribution, information essential for effective conservation strategies. In this context, investigating blood physiology is a valuable tool for assessing the health status, well-being, and adaptive capacity of free-living individuals. This study aimed to determine blood parameters (erythrogram, leukogram, thrombogram, and plasma biochemistry) in freshwater stingrays from the lower Rio Negro, Amazonas. Three species were captured: Potamotrygon motoro, Potamotrygon wallacei, and Paratrygon spp., totaling 27 specimens. The animals were anesthetized with eugenol, and 1 to 2 mL of blood was collected by gill puncture. The morphological, hematological, and biochemical analysis of these three stingray species revealed significant differences among species and sexes. Paratrygon spp. stood out for its larger body size and higher thrombocyte counts, suggesting greater robustness and immune response. Females generally exhibited larger dimensions and higher physiological values, indicating sexual dimorphism and greater reproductive demand. P. wallacei showed a smaller size and a distinct hematological profile, possibly reflecting adaptations to more restricted environments. Variations in glucose, protein, and leukocyte levels underscore the influence of ecological and reproductive factors on species physiology, highlighting distinct adaptive strategies in response to the Amazonian environment. In this context, as the first information on freshwater stingrays from the lower Rio Negro region, the hematological parameters reveal specific aspects of the species, sex, and habitat.