Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigthorn skate (Rajella barnardi) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Southeast Atlantic off southern Africa; outer continental shelf and upper slope.
Description
Barnard's skate is a deep-water skate of the family Rajidae from the south-eastern Atlantic off southern Africa. The species grows to about 75 cm and has a flat, rhomboidal pectoral disc with a row of larger thorns along the back and tail. It lives on the outer continental shelf and upper slope at considerable depth. As a bottom hunter it feeds on small crustaceans, worms and small fishes. Reproduction is oviparous, with horny egg cases. Unlike stingrays a skate lacks a venomous tail spine; it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigthorn skate?
The Bigthorn skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Row of larger thorns along the back and tail; deep-water ray without a venomous tail spine.
Where does the Bigthorn skate live?
The Bigthorn skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Atlantic off southern Africa; outer continental shelf and upper slope.
How big does the Bigthorn skate get?
The Bigthorn skate grows to a maximum of about 75 cm.
Is the Bigthorn skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigthorn skate is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bigthorn skate edible?
The Bigthorn skate is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rajella
More from the family Rajidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigthorn skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigthorn skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.