Fin's Fish Guide
The Blonde ray (Raja brachyura) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea, on sandy bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The blonde ray is a large, flat cartilaginous fish of the family Rajidae reaching a wingspan of about 1.2 metres. The diamond-shaped body, formed by the pectoral fins fused to the head, is pale sandy-brown and scattered with numerous small dark spots that, unlike the spotted ray, extend right to the edge of the wings; larger pale blotches often lie between them. The species lives on sandy bottoms of the continental shelf of the north-eastern Atlantic and the North Sea, from shallow water to several hundred metres. On the bottom it hunts crabs, shrimps and small fish. It lays eggs in horny capsules. Due to fishing and its slow growth it is assessed as Near Threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blonde ray?
The Blonde ray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Large diamond-shaped ray with numerous small dark spots running right to the edge of the wings, often with larger light blotches in between.
Where does the Blonde ray live?
The Blonde ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea, on sandy bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Blonde ray get?
The Blonde ray grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the Blonde ray dangerous to humans?
No, the Blonde ray is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blonde ray edible?
Yes, the Blonde ray is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Blonde ray and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Raja
More from the family Rajidae
Want the complete picture on the Blonde ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blonde ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.