True Skates [Rajidae]

Description

The Rajidae family, commonly known as True Skates, comprises the largest group within the order Rajiformes. True Skates are distinguished by their flattened bodies and large pectoral fins that extend from or near the snout to the base of their slender tails. Unlike rays, skates do not possess venomous spines. They are benthic animals, living primarily on the bottom of the ocean, where they feed on a variety of invertebrates and small fish. Skates reproduce by laying eggs known as 'mermaid's purses' that are encased in tough, leathery pouches. This family is widely distributed across the globe, inhabiting a range of marine environments from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea.

Genera

Taxonomy