Fin's Fish Guide
The Leopard skate (Rajella leoparda) is a saltwater fish of the family Rajidae that grows up to 95 cm.
Southeast Atlantic off southern Africa; deep parts of the shelf and slope.
Description
The leopard skate is a skate (Rajidae) from the deep waters of the southeastern Atlantic Ocean off southern Africa. The species has a diamond-shaped, strongly flattened body with large pectoral fins and a leopard-like spotted pattern. It lives bottom-bound on deeper parts of the continental shelf and slope. As a bottom hunter it feeds on bottom crustaceans, dragonets, rattails and other small fishes. It lays eggs in horny egg cases. Unlike stingrays it has no venomous spine. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leopard skate?
The Leopard skate has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Leopard-like blotched pattern; oviparous deep-water skate without a venomous spine.
Where does the Leopard skate live?
The Leopard skate lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Atlantic off southern Africa; deep parts of the shelf and slope.
How big does the Leopard skate get?
The Leopard skate grows to a maximum of about 95 cm.
Is the Leopard skate dangerous to humans?
No, the Leopard skate is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Leopard skate edible?
The Leopard skate is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rajella
More from the family Rajidae
Want the complete picture on the Leopard skate?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leopard skate is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone