Fin's Fish Guide
The American sand lance (Ammodytes americanus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ammodytidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Description
The American sand lance (Ammodytes americanus) is a very slender, eel-like fish of the family Ammodytidae from the western Atlantic. The species has an elongate, silvery body with a pointed head and a projecting lower jaw, and reaches about 24 cm. It occurs in shallow coastal waters, sheltered bays and estuaries, where it forms large schools and buries itself lightning-fast in the sand when threatened. As a plankton feeder it feeds on zooplankton. Owing to its abundance the sand lance is a crucial prey for numerous fishes, seabirds and marine mammals. It is used locally as bait and fish meal.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the American sand lance?
The American sand lance has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Buries itself in the sand lightning-fast when in danger; crucial prey in the coastal food web.
Where does the American sand lance live?
The American sand lance lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Shallow coastal waters of the western Atlantic.
How big does the American sand lance get?
The American sand lance grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.
Is the American sand lance dangerous to humans?
No, the American sand lance is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the American sand lance edible?
The American sand lance is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ammodytes
More from the family Ammodytidae
Want the complete picture on the American sand lance?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the American sand lance is one of 12,519 species in the app.