Fin's Fish Guide
The Little skate (Leucoraja erinacea) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 54 cm.
Sandy and gravel bottoms of the continental shelf of the northwest Atlantic.
Description
The little skate (Leucoraja erinacea) is a true skate of the family Rajidae from the northwestern Atlantic. The species has a diamond-shaped, flattened, brownish pectoral disc with dark spots and small thorns on the back, and reaches about 54 cm. Unlike stingrays it bears no venomous spine and is harmless. It lives on sand and gravel bottoms of the continental shelf. As a bottom dweller it feeds on small crustaceans, worms, mollusks and small fishes. Rajidae are egg-laying: the eggs are enclosed in horny egg cases, commonly called 'mermaid's purses'. The species is mainly used as bait and in research.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Little skate?
The Little skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Diamond-shaped ray without a venomous spine; lays eggs in horny 'mermaid's purses'.
Where does the Little skate live?
The Little skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Sandy and gravel bottoms of the continental shelf of the northwest Atlantic.
How big does the Little skate get?
The Little skate grows to a maximum of about 54 cm.
Is the Little skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Little 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 Little skate edible?
The Little skate is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leucoraja
More from the family Rajidae
Want the complete picture on the Little skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Little skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.