Thintail Skate
Dipturus leptocauda
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Thintail Skate faces severe pressure from commercial bottom trawl fisheries operating across its deep-water range in the Northeast Atlantic. Its slow growth rate, late sexual maturity, and low reproductive output make populations extremely vulnerable to overfishing, with recovery taking decades even after fishing pressure is reduced. Bycatch mortality in deep-sea fisheries targeting other species compounds direct fishing pressure, while the species' preference for continental slope habitats places it directly in the path of intensive commercial fishing operations.
Habitat
The Thintail Skate inhabits deep continental shelf and upper slope waters of the Northeast Atlantic, typically found at depths between 200-1000 meters on muddy and sandy bottoms. This demersal species prefers the cooler waters along the continental margin from Norway to the Bay of Biscay.
Other threatened species in Rajidae
Threatened in Brazil
Frequently asked questions
Why is Thintail Skate classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Thintail Skate live?
What are the main threats to Thintail Skate?
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