Fin's Fish Guide
The Ray (Atlantoraja castelnaui) is a saltwater fish of the family Arhynchobatidae that grows up to 132 cm.
Description
The spotback skate is a skate (Arhynchobatidae) from the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. The species has a large, diamond-shaped, strongly flattened body with large pectoral fins and a pattern of dark spots on the back. It lives bottom-bound on soft bottoms of the continental shelf. As a bottom hunter it feeds on fishes, crustaceans and other invertebrates. It lays eggs in horny egg cases. Owing to fishing pressure the species is critically endangered. Unlike stingrays it has no venomous spine.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ray?
The Ray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Dark blotches on the back; oviparous ray without a venomous spine, critically endangered by fishing.
Where does the Ray live?
The Ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southwest Atlantic; soft bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Ray get?
The Ray grows to a maximum of about 132 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Ray dangerous to humans?
No, the Ray is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ray edible?
Yes, the Ray is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Atlantoraja
More from the family Arhynchobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.