Dipturus

**Dipturus**

Dipturus is a genus of skates belonging to the family Rajidae, commonly known as the "true skates." These marine elasmobranchs are characterized by their flattened, disc-shaped bodies, which are adapted for a bottom-dwelling lifestyle. The genus includes several species found across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea. Dipturus skates are typically recognized by their broad, oval-shaped bodies, which can range from 30 to 100 centimeters in width, though some species may exceed this size.

Several species within the genus are commercially important due to their flesh, which is prized for its mild flavor and high nutritional value. The most notable among them is the common skate (*Dipturus batis*), widely harvested for its meat and fins. Other species, such as the thornback skate (*Dipturus oxyrinchus*), are also targeted by fisheries, though their populations vary in abundance depending on local fishing pressures.

Dipturus skates exhibit a range of coloration patterns, often featuring shades of brown, gray, or olive, with darker spots or stripes that help them blend into sandy or muddy ocean floors. Their eyes are positioned on the dorsal side of their heads, allowing them to see above the substrate while their undersides remain camouflaged. Like other skates, they possess a cartilaginous skeleton, five gill slits, and a single dorsal fin supported by a spine.

These species are generally solitary and nocturnal, feeding on a diet that includes crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Reproduction in Dipturus skates is oviparous, with females laying egg cases (mermaid’s purses) that are often found washed ashore. Conservation efforts vary by species, with some populations facing threats from overfishing and habitat degradation. Research into their ecology and sustainable fishing practices remains an ongoing focus for marine biologists.