Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortfin sand skate (Psammobatis normani) is a saltwater fish of the family Arhynchobatidae that grows up to 58 cm.
Description
Norman's sand skate is a small skate from the southeastern Pacific and the southwestern Atlantic, ranging from Uruguay to Argentina. The species grows to about 58 cm and has a rhomboid head disc without a rostral spine, characteristic of the softnose skates. As a bottom-dweller the fish lives on soft bottoms to about 120 metres depth and feeds on small bottom animals. The species is oviparous and lays egg cases with horn-like projections. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortfin sand skate?
The Shortfin sand skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Diamond-shaped head shield without a rostral spine; oviparous with horny egg cases
Where does the Shortfin sand skate live?
The Shortfin sand skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern South America
How big does the Shortfin sand skate get?
The Shortfin sand skate grows to a maximum of about 58 cm.
Is the Shortfin sand skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortfin sand skate is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Shortfin sand skate edible?
The Shortfin sand skate is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Psammobatis
More from the family Arhynchobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortfin sand skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortfin sand skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.