Common Name
White-dotted Skate
Year Described
Norman, 1937
Identification
Nuchal median thorns: 3-4
Tail median thorns: 18-22
Disk diamond shaped and quite smooth (rarely a few prickles on anterior disk margin, the midline, and around the orbits). Median thorn row continuous. Snout relatively short with slightly convex anterior margins. Anterior margin of pectoral fins concave. No ocular or scapular thorns. Alar thorns number 16-20. Dorsal fins are separated by an interdorsal thorn. Claspers slender with slightly enlarged tips. Teeth are conical and sharp.
Color
Dorsum medium to dark brown with indistinct marbling or small dark blotches. The entire disk is covered in small white spots. Ventrum is white, with slightly darker posterior margins of disk and some spots on the lower tail.
Size
Maximum disk width to 60cm.
Habitat
Captured on the continental shelf and slope between 72-945m (mostly between 200-300m). Smaller specimens are usually found at greater depth.
Range
Southwest Atlantic: Uruguay to Tierra del Fuego, Chile, including the Falkland Is. Also in the SE Pacific.
References
Bizikov, V., Arkhipkin A.I., Laptikhovsky VV., Pompert J.H.W. 2004. Identification guide and biology of the Falkland skates. Stanley, Falkland Islands: Fisheries Department, Falkland Island Government. 11 p.