Fin's Fish Guide
The Bering skate (Bathyraja interrupta) is a saltwater fish of the family Arhynchobatidae that grows up to 89 cm.
North Pacific off the west coast of North America; outer continental shelf.
Description
The sandpaper skate is a deepwater skate (Arhynchobatidae) from the northern Pacific off the west coast of North America. The species has a flat, rhomboid body disc with broad pectoral fins and a rough skin studded with fine thorns, to which the name refers. It inhabits the outer continental shelf on mud or sand bottoms, where it often buries itself. As a bottom predator it feeds on benthic invertebrates such as krill, crabs and worms, and on small fishes. Skates are oviparous, with horny egg cases. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bering skate?
The Bering skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Rough skin covered with small thorns; oviparous with horny egg cases; buries itself.
Where does the Bering skate live?
The Bering skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific off the west coast of North America; outer continental shelf.
How big does the Bering skate get?
The Bering skate grows to a maximum of about 89 cm.
Is the Bering skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Bering skate is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bering skate edible?
The Bering skate is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bathyraja
More from the family Arhynchobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Bering skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bering skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.