Fin's Fish Guide
The Virginia skate (Leucoraja virginica) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The Virginia skate is a skate (Rajidae) of sand and mud bottoms of the western Atlantic off the United States. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a flat, diamond-shaped disc with a pointed snout and a prickly back and tail. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried and searches for crustaceans, molluscs and bottom fish. It reproduces with egg cases ('mermaid's purses'). The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Virginia skate?
The Virginia skate has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Virginia skate live?
The Virginia skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Virginia skate get?
The Virginia skate grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Virginia skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Virginia 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leucoraja
More from the family Rajidae
Want the complete picture on the Virginia skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Virginia skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.