Dipturus
Dipturus is a genus of skates, a group of cartilaginous fish in the family Rajidae. They are found in the deep waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are characterized by their flattened bodies, large pectoral fins that extend around the head, and a pair of dorsal fins located near the tail. Dipturus species are typically demersal, meaning they live on or near the bottom of the ocean floor.
Common Names
Dipturus species are commonly known as longnose skates, thornback skates, or smooth skates, although specific common names vary depending on the species and location.
Characteristics
Dipturus skates share several distinctive characteristics, including:
- Flattened body: Their body shape is dorsoventrally flattened, resembling a pancake, which helps them to maneuver on the ocean floor.
- Large pectoral fins: The pectoral fins extend around the head, forming wing-like structures that are used for swimming and gliding.
- Dorsal fins: Two dorsal fins are located near the tail, providing stability and maneuverability.
- Spines: Some species have spines on their backs, which serve as a defensive mechanism.
- Gill slits: Five gill slits are located on the ventral side of the body.
- Mouth: The mouth is located on the underside of the body, equipped with rows of teeth adapted for crushing prey.
Environment
Dipturus skates are found in a variety of marine environments, typically in deep waters. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms and are often found in continental shelf and slope regions. Some species can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, while others are more restricted to colder waters.
References
For more information on Dipturus, please refer to the following resources: