Fin's Fish Guide
The Gill's sand lance (Ammodytoides gilli) is a saltwater fish of the family Ammodytidae that grows up to 12 cm.
North America: Costa Rica, Galapagos Is., El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and others
Description
Gill's sand lance is a sand lance (Ammodytidae) from shallow sandy water of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a very slender, elongate, silvery body with a pointed, projecting lower jaw and a long dorsal fin. As a social fish it swims in schools just above the bottom and dives head-first into the sand in a flash when threatened, also burrowing in it at night. It filters small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gill's sand lance?
The Gill's sand lance has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Gill's sand lance live?
The Gill's sand lance lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Costa Rica, Galapagos Is., El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and others
How big does the Gill's sand lance get?
The Gill's sand lance grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Gill's sand lance dangerous to humans?
No, the Gill's 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ammodytoides
More from the family Ammodytidae
Want the complete picture on the Gill's sand lance?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gill's sand lance is one of 12,519 species in the app.