Author: (Linnaeus, 1758)
FBname: Blue skate
Comments: Benthic species in shelf and slope waters, mainly within the 200 m range along the continental shelf, but down to 600 m along continental slopes and seamounts (Ref. 127222). Feeds on all kinds of bottom invertebrates and fish, including other skates (Ref. 114953). Oviparous, with long embryonic development. Males reach maturity at ca. 115 cm TL, females at 123 cm TL; birth size at ca. 21 cm TL (Ref. 114953). Biology may be unclear due to past taxonomic confusion Distinct pairing with embrace.  Young may tend to follow large objects, such as their mother (Ref. 205).  Mate in spring and the egg capsules are laid during the summer.  Eggs are oblong capsules with stiff pointed horns at the corners deposited in sandy or muddy flats (Ref. 205).  Egg capsules are 10.6-24.5 cm long and 5.0-14.5  cm wide (Ref. 41250).  About 40 eggs per individual are laid annually (Ref. 41250).  Flesh is marketed fresh or smoked (Ref. 35388).