Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark-belly skate (Bathyraja meridionalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Arhynchobatidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The Dark-belly skate is a deepsea skate (Arhynchobatidae) of the continental slope in the deep Southern Ocean. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a flat, diamond-shaped disc with a soft snout and a prickly back and tail. As a bottom-dweller of the cold deep water it lies on sand and mud and searches for crustaceans, molluscs and bottom fish. It reproduces with egg cases ('mermaid's purses'). The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dark-belly skate?
The Dark-belly skate has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Dark-belly skate live?
The Dark-belly skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Chile
How big does the Dark-belly skate get?
The Dark-belly skate grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the Dark-belly skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark-belly skate is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Dark-belly skate edible?
Yes, the Dark-belly skate is commonly 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 Dark-belly skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dark-belly skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.