Fin's Fish Guide
The Rough ray (Raja radula) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Endemic to the Mediterranean Sea, mainly the eastern and southern part, over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The rough ray is a diamond-shaped ray of the family Rajidae (true skates) reaching a disc width of about 70 cm. The upper side is brown with fine mottling and feels rough like a rasp due to its densely set granular skin denticles - hence the name 'radula'. Rows of thorns run over the back and tail, but unlike stingrays it lacks a venomous spine. The species is endemic to the Mediterranean and lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf. On the bottom it hunts crabs, shrimps, crustaceans and small fish. It is egg-laying. Through fishing pressure and bycatch it has declined and is assessed as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rough ray?
The Rough ray has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Diamond-shaped ray with granular, rough dorsal skin (hence 'radula') and rows of small thorns; no venomous spine.
Where does the Rough ray live?
The Rough ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to the Mediterranean Sea, mainly the eastern and southern part, over sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Rough ray get?
The Rough ray grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Rough ray dangerous to humans?
No, the Rough ray is harmless to humans. Unlike stingrays this skate has no venomous tail spine and is harmless; the rough skin and thorns can abrade, however.
Is the Rough ray edible?
Yes, the Rough ray is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Rough ray and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Raja
More from the family Rajidae
Want the complete picture on the Rough ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rough ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.