Fin's Fish Guide
The McCain's skate (Bathyraja maccaini) is a saltwater fish of the family Arhynchobatidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Southern Ocean around Antarctica, demersal on the continental shelf and slope.
Description
McCain's skate is a skate (family Arhynchobatidae) of the cold waters around Antarctica. The species grows to about 120 cm and has a rhomboid, flattened pectoral disc in shades of brown and a tail with rows of small thorns. It lives demersally on the bottom of the continental shelf and slope of the Southern Ocean. Its diet consists of bottom invertebrates and fishes. Reproduction is oviparous: the female lays angular egg capsules with stiff points, and young may follow large objects such as their mother. The species is harmless to humans (no sting) and of modest local value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the McCain's skate?
The McCain's skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Antarctic ray that lays angular egg cases; lacks a venomous sting and is harmless.
Where does the McCain's skate live?
The McCain's skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Ocean around Antarctica, demersal on the continental shelf and slope.
How big does the McCain's skate get?
The McCain's skate grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the McCain's skate dangerous to humans?
No, the McCain's skate is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the McCain's skate edible?
The McCain's skate is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 McCain's skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the McCain's skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.