There is concern for the biomass of sandy ray in the Celtic Sea and West of Scotland and no concern for fishing pressure. There is no management plan for skates and rays and the joint TAC has been deemed an unsuitable method for protecting individual species. Otter trawling is likely to cause some damage to the seabed. Bycatch is moderate and may include vulnerable species.Rating last updated January 2023.

For more information about this rating please visit: http://www.cornwallgoodseafoodguide.org.uk/fish-guide/sandy-ray.php

Updated: October 2020.The stock status of sandy ray in this area is unknown. There is a lack of monitoring for the stock. Whilst landings data have improved in recent years, sandy rays are still confused with small eyed rays, and therefore, there is insufficient information to determine if their populations are healthy. There is no specific management plan for skates and rays in these waters. They are managed under a total allowable catch (TAC) for many skates and rays and greater protection is needed. Further management of the species is advised e.g. through fishery closures to allow them to reproduce. Common bycatch in fixed nets includes lesser spotted dogfish, nursehound and starry ray. Gillnets generally cause low impacts to the habitat, although ghost fishing is occasionally reported.