The Elegant sand diver (Trichonotus elegans) is a saltwater fish of the family Trichonotidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Guam, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is. and others
Description
The Elegant sand diver is a sand diver (Trichonotidae) from shallow coastal water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a very slender, elongate, translucent body with a pointed head and long dorsal and anal fins. It hovers by day above sand bottoms and hunts small zooplankton; when in danger it dives lightning-fast into the sand. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elegant sand diver?
The Elegant sand diver has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Elegant sand diver live?
The Elegant sand diver lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Guam, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is. and others
How big does the Elegant sand diver get?
The Elegant sand diver grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Elegant sand diver dangerous to humans?
No, the Elegant sand diver 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.
More photos

Want the complete picture on the Elegant sand diver?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elegant sand diver is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trichonotus
More from the family Trichonotidae

Want the complete picture on the Elegant sand diver?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elegant sand diver is one of 12,519 species in the app.