They are benthic (bottom-dwelling) and are found throughout the
world from continental shelves down to the abyssal zone. They are
oviparous fishes, laying eggs in a horny case known as a mermaid's
purse. It is thought that egg-laying in skates is an evolutionary
reversal, that is, skates are descended from ovoviviparous ancestors.
The common skate, Dipturus batis, is the largest found in British
waters. It has a long, pointed snout. However, the most common skate
in British seas is the thornback ray, Raja clavata. They are frequently
caught by trawling.
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