![Thornback ray](/sites/default/files/styles/node_hero_default/public/2018-03/Thornback%20ray%2C%20Shieldaig%201%20RJ2_Paul%20Naylor_FRE.jpg?h=787f9199&itok=bTZZ_65F)
Thornback ray ©Paul Naylor www.marinephoto.co.uk
Thornback ray
Scientific name: Raja clavata
The most commonly encountered ray around the British Isles, it's easy to see where the thornback ray got its name from - just check out the spines on its back!
Species information
Statistics
Length: Up to 139cmWeight: Up to 18kg
Average Lifespan: Can live for around 15 years
Conservation status
The thornback ray is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List