Fin's Fish Guide
The Roughnose leg skate (Cruriraja parcomaculata) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The roughnose legskate is a small skate of the family Rajidae from the western Indian Ocean, along the southeast coast of Africa. The species reaches about 55 cm and has a flattened, diamond-shaped disc with a rough snout and thorns, and pelvic fins whose front lobe can probe the bottom like 'legs'. It lives on the upper continental slope, at depths of about 150 to 620 m, and feeds on small crustaceans, dragonets, squid and worms. The species is oviparous: it lays oblong, horny egg cases with stiff points on sandy or muddy bottoms; young sometimes follow large objects.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Roughnose leg skate?
The Roughnose leg skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Pelvic fin lobes with which the ray 'feels' its way over the bottom; lays horny egg cases with stiff points.
Where does the Roughnose leg skate live?
The Roughnose leg skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Indian Ocean, along the southeast coast of Africa.
How big does the Roughnose leg skate get?
The Roughnose leg skate grows to a maximum of about 55 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Roughnose leg skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Roughnose leg skate is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Roughnose leg skate edible?
The Roughnose leg skate is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Rajidae
Want the complete picture on the Roughnose leg skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Roughnose leg skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.