It is a cartilaginous fish, small in size, rarely exceeding 60 cm, edible and highly appreciated in our gastronomy. It is endemic to the Mediterranean and the Gulf of Cadis.

Its body, rhomboid and flattened, is tan with irregular white spots with dark edges. It lives in groups, sometimes solitary, on muddy or sandy bottoms up to 150m deep.

It feeds on benthic animals, which feed on small fish and crustaceans.

Although it gracefully glides along the seabed, it is a territorial species that does not tolerate intruders well. If they are disturbed they defend themselves with their sting.

It is an ovoviviparous species.

During the day they usually bury themselves up to the eyes and spiracles in a soft bottom; they normally capture their prey by covering it with their body.

Conservation status