description Longnose Skate Overview
The longnose skate (Raja rhina) is a cartilaginous fish native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from the Bering Sea and Alaska down to Baja California. This benthic species inhabits continental shelf and slope environments, typically residing at depths ranging from shallow coastal waters down to around 1,000 meters. It is easily distinguished from other regional skates by its markedly elongated, acutely pointed snout and its dark dorsal surface, which often features subtle spotting. It belongs to the family Rajidae and feeds on small invertebrates and fishes found along the ocean floor.
help Longnose Skate FAQ
Why is Raja rhina called the longnose skate?
Its most obvious feature is an extremely long, sharply pointed snout that extends ahead of the broad pectoral fins. The dorsal surface is usually brown, bluish, or grey, often with a dark ring near each pectoral fin. [Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife](https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/species/raja-rhina)
Where does the longnose skate live?
Raja rhina occurs in the eastern North Pacific from the Bering Sea and Alaska south to Baja California. It is a bottom-dweller found from about 55 metres to as deep as 1,000 metres. [Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife](https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/species/raja-rhina)
How big and how old can a longnose skate get?
The species can reach about 145 centimetres in length, with females generally larger than males. Washington wildlife data lists a maximum recorded female age of 26 years. [Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife](https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/species/raja-rhina)
Does a longnose skate have the same stinger as a stingray?
No, it is a skate, and identification focuses on its row of sharp dorsal spines rather than a venomous stingray barb. The species has about 20 mid-dorsal spines and a reduced caudal fin, so it should still be handled with care. [Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife](https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/species/raja-rhina)
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