Rays and Skates are some of the most instantly recognizable fish on the planet. Their wide bodies and long tails make them easy to spot, and set them apart from all other Flatfish. But what’s the difference between them? How do you identify Skate vs. Ray? That’s exactly what you’ll learn in this short article.
There are well over 600 species of Ray and Skate, so it’s safe to say that they come in all shapes and sizes. Some have venomous stings. Others attack with electricity. They can range from only a few inches to over 20 feet in length. Even so, there are a few things that help us identify a fish as one or the other.
Differences Between Ray and Skate
At a glance, the easiest way to identify Rays and Skates is by their shape. Rays are normally diamond-shaped. Skates are triangular or rounded, and often have an extended, pointy nose. That being said, with so many varieties out there, there are bound to be some exceptions to the rule.
Another big difference between the two families is how they reproduce. Rays give birth to live “pups,” while Skates lay eggs known as “mermaids’ purses.” Don’t let the romantic name fool you. They look more like some bizarre beetle than anything out of a fairytale. In fact, you may well have come across one on a beach without knowing what it was.
The most important thing to look at when identifying your catch is its tail. Rays have long, whip-like tails which they use to defend themselves. These often hide a nasty surprise in the form of one or two venomous barbs. Not all Rays have stings, but they all have the same signature whip for a tail.
Skates, on the other hand, have thick, fleshy tails that never have stings. Instead, they have sharp spikes or thorns which run along the middle of their tail and up their back. This makes them tricky to handle if you reel one in, but at least you know that you won’t get stung!
Finally, if you really want to get up close and personal with your catch, check its mouth. Most Skates have small, pointy teeth. Rays have serrated plates which are designed more for crushing prey than biting it. Oh, and they both have adorable smiles!
Rays and Skates may look pretty similar at first glance, but there are some important differences once you scratch the surface. Whichever one you reel in next, be sure to handle it with care – for your sake as much as the fish’s!
Have you ever caught a Ray or a Skate? How did you do it? Let us know in the comments below. We’re always happy to hear from you!
