Fin's Fish Guide
The Lance (Ammodytes dubius) is a saltwater fish of the family Ammodytidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of North America on sandy bottoms.
Description
The northern sand lance is a very slender, eel-like marine fish of the family Ammodytidae reaching about 25 cm. The streamlined, silvery body has a greenish back, a pointed head and a projecting lower jaw. The species lives on sandy bottoms of the north-western Atlantic, forming large schools above sandbanks. It is notable for being able to burrow rapidly into the sand to escape predators or to spend the night. It feeds on small zooplankton such as copepods and fish larvae. Sand lances are a crucial food source for seabirds, marine mammals and commercial fish such as cod and mackerel.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lance?
The Lance has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very slender, eel-like silvery small fish with a pointed head and a projecting lower jaw; burrows quickly into sandy bottoms.
Where does the Lance live?
The Lance lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Atlantic along the east coast of North America on sandy bottoms.
How big does the Lance get?
The Lance grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Lance dangerous to humans?
No, the Lance is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lance edible?
The 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 Lance?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lance is one of 12,519 species in the app.