Leucoraja melitensis

(Clark, 1926)


Maltese ray
Classification: Elasmobranchii Rajiformes Rajidae

Reference of the original description
Clark, R.S. (1926)
Rays and skates. A revision of the European species. Fishery Board for Scotland. Scientific Investigations, 1926(1), 1–66

Synonyms / new combinations and misspellings
Raia melitensis, Raja melitensis, Raja (Leucoraja) melitensis

Types
Leucoraja melitensis
Syntype: BMNH: 1926.12.20.2;


Description :


Citation: Leucoraja melitensis (Clark, 1926): In: Database of modern sharks, rays and chimaeras, www.shark-references.com, World Wide Web electronic publication, Version 02/2025

Please send your images of "Leucoraja melitensis" to info@shark-references.com

Leucoraja melitensis (Clark, 1926), © FAO, www.fish-base.org
Common names
spa Raya de Malta, fra \(T\) Raie de Malte, eng Maltese brown ray, eng Maltese ray, eng Maltese skate, ita Pichira janca, ita Razza maltese

Distribution
Mediterranean Sea: endemic to the coasts of Tunisia, Malta and a single record from Italy; rare off Algeria.

Biology
Oviparous, paired eggs are laid. Embryos feed solely on yolk [733]. Breeds throughout the year, but ripe females observed mainly in spring and autumn [7182]. Distinct pairing with embrace. Young may tend to follow large objects, such as their mother [17086]. Feeds on crustaceans mainly amphipods.

Size / Weight / Age
50.0 cm TL (male/unsexed; [7182])

Habitat
bathydemersal; marine; depth range 60 - 600 m [7182]

Remarks
shark-references Species-ID=3494;