May 2009

Pacific Starry Skate
Raja stellulata (Jordan & Gilbert, 1880)

FAMILY RAJIDAE (Hardnose Skates)

Identification: Known as the spiniest of eastern North Pacific hardnosed skates, the Pacific starry skate is covered with prickly spines and abrasive dermal denticles. Its dorsal surface has rows of thorns along its mid-back, groups of orbital thorns, up to six large thorns on its shoulder girdle, [...]