The Melbourne skate (Dipturus whitleyi) is a fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 170 cm.
Description
The Melbourne skate is a large skate (Rajidae) from coastal waters of southern Australia. The species grows to about 1.7 metres and has a flattened, diamond-shaped, grey-brown body with a pointed snout and rows of thorns over the back and tail. Unlike stingrays it has no venomous spine. As a bottom-dweller it searches sand and mud bottoms for crustaceans, molluscs and small fish; it lays eggs in horny capsules. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Melbourne skate?
The Melbourne skate is mainly brown.
Where does the Melbourne skate live?
The Melbourne skate is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Melbourne skate get?
The Melbourne skate grows to a maximum of about 170 cm.
Is the Melbourne skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Melbourne skate is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dipturus
More from the family Rajidae
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