Leucoraja

Leucoraja is a genus of skates, a type of cartilaginous fish in the family Rajidae. These are bottom-dwelling rays characterized by their flattened bodies, broad pectoral fins that form a disc shape, and typically two dorsal fins located near the tail. Skates in the genus Leucoraja are found in marine environments, primarily inhabiting temperate and tropical waters. They are distinguished from their close relatives, the stingrays, by the absence of a venomous barb on their tail.

The diet of Leucoraja skates generally consists of small invertebrates and fish found on the seabed. They are oviparous, meaning they reproduce by laying eggs enclosed in a leathery egg case, often referred to as a "mermaid's purse." These cases are typically found washed ashore on beaches. Species within the Leucoraja genus exhibit variations in size, coloration, and the presence of dermal denticles, which are small, tooth-like scales covering their skin. Their flattened morphology allows them to camouflage effectively against the substrate. Some species are commercially important, while others face threats from overfishing and habitat degradation.