Fin's Fish Guide
The Eastern sand darter (Ammocrypta pellucida) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The eastern sand darter is a small perch-like fish from eastern North America, in the St. Lawrence drainage, the Great Lakes and the Ohio basin. It grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, almost translucent body with two separate dorsal fins, typical of darters. The fish lives on sandy stretches of small to medium rivers, where it often burrows, and feeds on small benthic invertebrates. Although locally common, it is declining rapidly because of siltation and deteriorating water quality. The IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eastern sand darter?
The Eastern sand darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender translucent body; buries itself in sandy river bottoms
Where does the Eastern sand darter live?
The Eastern sand darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern North America
How big does the Eastern sand darter get?
The Eastern sand darter grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Eastern sand darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Eastern sand darter 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 Eastern sand darter edible?
The Eastern sand darter is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ammocrypta
More from the family Percidae
Want the complete picture on the Eastern sand darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eastern sand darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.