SPECIES: Zearaja maugeana — Maugean Skate, Port Davey Skate
CLASSIFICATION: Endangered
The Maugean Skate is a medium-sized species of skate up to about 85cm in length, coloured grey and black above and light grey underneath. Distinctively, mature males have a triple row of thorns on their tail. Little is known about their lifespan, though they are thought to live to 15 plus years.
Previously known from 2 isolated estuaries in south-west Tasmania, recent survey research now indicates that the majority, if not all remaining species are now only found in the Macquarie Harbour. A decline in their population is due to habitat loss, disturbance, weeds and a limited genetic diversity.
Photo: James Rucker/IMAS