Fin's Fish Guide
The Raspthorn sand skate (Psammobatis scobina) is a saltwater fish of the family Arhynchobatidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Southeast Pacific; endemic to Chile (Mejillones to the Strait of Magellan), on the continental shelf and upper slope.
Description
The raspthorn sand skate is a small skate of the family Arhynchobatidae from the south-eastern Pacific off Chile. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a flat, rhomboidal pectoral disc with numerous small thorns on the back, to which the name refers. It lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf. As a bottom hunter it feeds on small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. Reproduction is oviparous, with a distinct pairing in which the partners embrace. Unlike stingrays a skate lacks a venomous tail spine; it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Raspthorn sand skate?
The Raspthorn sand skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Numerous small thorns on the back; small cold-water skate without a venomous tail spine.
Where does the Raspthorn sand skate live?
The Raspthorn sand skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Pacific; endemic to Chile (Mejillones to the Strait of Magellan), on the continental shelf and upper slope.
How big does the Raspthorn sand skate get?
The Raspthorn sand skate grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Raspthorn sand skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Raspthorn sand skate is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Raspthorn sand skate edible?
The Raspthorn sand skate is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Psammobatis
More from the family Arhynchobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Raspthorn sand skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Raspthorn sand skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.