Sand eel

Sand eels, also known as sand lances, are small, slender fish belonging to the family Ammodytidae. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, pointed snouts, and deeply forked tails. Their size varies depending on the species, but they typically range from 15 to 30 centimeters in length.

These fish are found in temperate and cold waters of the Northern Hemisphere, inhabiting sandy seabeds. They are an important part of the marine ecosystem, serving as a crucial food source for a wide variety of predators, including seabirds, marine mammals, and larger fish.

Sand eels exhibit a unique behavior of burying themselves in the sand when threatened or during periods of inactivity, which gives them their common name. This behavior also provides refuge from strong currents and rough weather.

Their diet consists primarily of plankton and small invertebrates. They are schooling fish, often forming large aggregations, especially during spawning season. Spawning typically occurs in winter, with the eggs being laid on the seabed.

Overfishing and habitat degradation pose significant threats to sand eel populations in some areas, which can have cascading effects on the wider marine food web. Conservation efforts are focused on managing fisheries and protecting their sandy habitat. Different species of sand eel exist, each with its own specific range and characteristics, although they share the fundamental features described above. They are generally silver in colour with a slightly darker back.