Winter skate – Leucoraja ocellata

Leucoraja ocellata, commonly known as the ocellated skate, is a species of skate found in the North Atlantic Ocean. This ray is a member of the family Rajidae, which includes a large variety of skates and rays.

Description & Characteristics

Leucoraja ocellata is a relatively large skate, with individuals reaching a maximum size of 113.0 cm. Its body is characterized by a flattened, disc-shaped form with a long, whip-like tail. The dorsal surface of the skate is covered in small, round, dark spots, giving it a distinctive, ocellated appearance. These spots are believed to provide camouflage against the rocky seabed, allowing Leucoraja ocellata to blend in with its surroundings.

Habitat and Occurrence

Leucoraja ocellata is a demersal species, meaning it lives primarily on or near the bottom of the ocean floor. It prefers sandy, muddy, or rocky bottoms and can be found in depths ranging from 4.0 to 723.0 meters. This wide depth range indicates that Leucoraja ocellata can inhabit a variety of marine zones, from the shallow continental shelf to the deep ocean floor. The ocellated skate is typically found in the North Atlantic Ocean, where it is a common sight in the waters off the coast of Europe and North America.

Taxonomy

Leucoraja ocellata belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Rajiformes, and Family: Rajidae. This classification places it within a group of cartilaginous fishes, which are characterized by their skeletons made of cartilage rather than bone. The order Rajiformes includes all skates and rays, while the family Rajidae encompasses a broad range of species known for their flattened bodies and wing-like pectoral fins.

Feeding

Leucoraja ocellata is a carnivorous predator. It feeds primarily on a variety of benthic invertebrates, including crustaceans, mollusks, and polychaetes. Its diet may also include small fish, depending on availability. The ocellated skate uses its flattened body and sensory organs to detect prey on the ocean floor. It then uses its sharp, pointed teeth to crush and consume its food.