Fin's Fish Guide
The Round skate (Rajella fyllae) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 60 cm.
North Atlantic on both sides, on silty and sandy bottoms of the continental shelf and slope in deep water.
Description
The round skate is a small deep-sea ray of the family Rajidae reaching about 60 cm. The disc, formed by the pectoral fins fused to the head, is almost round to heart-shaped, distinguishing the species from most diamond-shaped skates; rows of thorns run down the back and tail. The body is brownish with light and dark spots. The species lives on mud and sand bottoms of the continental shelf and slope on both sides of the northern Atlantic, usually between about 150 and two thousand metres. On the bottom it hunts small crustaceans and worms. It lays eggs in horny capsules and grows slowly; because of its deep-sea life it is rarely observed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Round skate?
The Round skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small deep-sea skate with an almost round, heart-shaped disc and rows of small thorns across back and tail.
Where does the Round skate live?
The Round skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Atlantic on both sides, on silty and sandy bottoms of the continental shelf and slope in deep water.
How big does the Round skate get?
The Round skate grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Round skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Round skate is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Round skate edible?
The Round skate is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rajella
More from the family Rajidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Round skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.