Fin's Fish Guide
The Sailray (Rajella lintea) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 125 cm.
North Atlantic, on silty and sandy bottoms of the continental slope in cold, deep water.
Description
The sailray is a large deep-sea ray of the family Rajidae reaching about 1.25 metres. The diamond-shaped body, formed by the pectoral fins fused to the head, is brownish above with a strikingly pale, almost white underside; rows of thorns run down the back and tail. The species lives on mud and sand bottoms of the continental slope in the cold, deep northern Atlantic, usually between one hundred and fifty and over two thousand metres. On the bottom it hunts bottom crustaceans, worms and small fish. It lays eggs in horny capsules and grows slowly. Because of its deep-sea life it is rarely observed and has no targeted fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sailray?
The Sailray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large deep-sea ray with a pale, almost white underside and rows of thorns over the back and tail; lives in cold, deep water.
Where does the Sailray live?
The Sailray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Atlantic, on silty and sandy bottoms of the continental slope in cold, deep water.
How big does the Sailray get?
The Sailray grows to a maximum of about 125 cm.
Is the Sailray dangerous to humans?
No, the Sailray is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sailray edible?
The Sailray 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
Want the complete picture on the Sailray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sailray is one of 12,519 species in the app.