Fin's Fish Guide
The Maya skate (Leucoraja caribbaea) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The Maya skate is a skate (Rajidae) of sand and mud bottoms of the deep Caribbean. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a flat, diamond-shaped disc with a pointed snout and a prickly back and tail. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried 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 Maya skate?
The Maya skate has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Maya skate live?
The Maya skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Maya skate get?
The Maya skate grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Maya skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Maya 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.
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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 Maya skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Maya skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.