A large skate with an angled disc; snout broadly pointed with a central cartilaginous support; tail short, with 1-3 rows of thorns and two dorsal fins near the tip; 1-4 thorns along the middle behind the head; a patch of thorns on each wing. Grey or greyish-brown on top, scattered with white flecks, underside pale. Juveniles have a large dark blotch on each wing.
Images showing the key charateristics of this skate species
Sorry I am working on providing identification images and information for this species please check back soon
What habitats does Spiniraja whitleyi live in?
The Melbourne Skate is one of the few skates to live on hard bottoms around reefs, although it also occurs on soft bottoms from intertidal zones out to a depth of around 345m
What is the distribution of Spiniraja whitleyi?
Southern Australia widely distributed on the continental shelf from about Sydney, New South Wales, to about Albany, Western Australia, and around Tasmania
How big does Spiniraja whitleyi grow?
Can grow to around 170cm long and up to around 50kg
Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid as a result the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the reference's or bibliography I welcome any feedback and comments on the information provided.