SkateSpotter

Flapper Skates and Conservation

Flapper skates (Dipturus intermedius) are the largest skates in UK waters, reaching over 2 meters (6'6") in length and weighing more than 100kg (220lbs). Once common, their populations have drastically declined, and they are now critically endangered. The Loch Sunart to the Sound of Jura Marine Protected Area (MPA) is a key conservation site dedicated to their protection.

What is SkateSpotter?

SkateSpotter is a mobile app that allows anglers, divers, and researchers to help track flapper skates across Scotland. Simply snap a photo and submit it through the app—your images will be automatically matched by Rate-A-Skate, which uses AI technology similar to fingerprint and facial recognition to identify skates based on their spot patterns. The data in SkateSpotter is used by researchers to study skate populations and their movements, helping to improve conservation efforts.

Why Your Photos Matter

- Identify individual skates using their unique spot patterns
- Track skate movements within the MPA and beyond
- Support conservation efforts by helping estimate population sizes
- Expand the SkateSpotter database with every new submission

How It Works

Scientists from SAMS and NatureScot have discovered that each flapper skate has a unique spot pattern on its back, making individual identification possible. By linking images submitted through SkateSpotter and using AI, researchers can monitor population trends and study skate movements over time.

Every submission contributes to skate conservation efforts, and we welcome all skate photos. Please refer to the in-app instructions on how to handle skates before submitting to ensure the safety and well-being of these incredible animals.