Leucoraja melitensis
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maltese_skate
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Maltese ray faces severe population decline primarily due to intensive bottom trawling and gillnet fishing throughout its Mediterranean range. Commercial fishing pressure has dramatically reduced suitable sandy and muddy bottom habitats, while bycatch mortality in demersal fisheries continues to impact remaining populations. The species' restricted range and slow reproductive rate make recovery particularly challenging under current fishing intensities.
Habitat
Leucoraja melitensis inhabits sandy and muddy bottoms of the continental shelf in the Mediterranean Sea, typically at depths between 50-400 meters. The species prefers soft sediment areas where it can bury itself for camouflage and foraging.
