Fin's Fish Guide
The Javalin skate (Dipturus doutrei) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 115 cm.
Eastern central Atlantic to the southwestern Indian Ocean: from Mauritania to South Africa (eastwards to the Cape Province).
Description
The violet skate is a large deep-sea skate of the family Rajidae reaching about 115 cm. The diamond-shaped upper side is dark brown with irregular dark blotches; the rear of the disc and the pelvic fins are blackish, and the underside is dark brown with black pores. The tail is stout and shorter than the body, with a swollen mid-section. The species lives on the deeper slope from the eastern central Atlantic to the south-western Indian Ocean, usually between 450 and 600 m, feeding on bottom fishes, shrimps and crabs. It is oviparous, laying horny egg cases with pointed projections.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Javalin skate?
The Javalin skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Large deep-sea skate with a dark brown upperside with irregular blotches and a dark underside with black pores; lays horny egg cases.
Where does the Javalin skate live?
The Javalin skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern central Atlantic to the southwestern Indian Ocean: from Mauritania to South Africa (eastwards to the Cape Province).
How big does the Javalin skate get?
The Javalin skate grows to a maximum of about 115 cm.
Is the Javalin skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Javalin skate is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Javalin skate edible?
The Javalin skate is rarely eaten.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Javalin skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Javalin skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.