Fin's Fish Guide
The Mitsukuri's sandlance (Bleekeria mitsukurii) is a saltwater fish of the family Ammodytidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
Mitsukuri's sandlance is a slender sand lance from the northwest Pacific, off Japan. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a very elongate, silvery body with a pointed head. It schools over sandy bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 55 and 215 metres, and quickly buries itself in the sand when threatened or at rest. It feeds on small zooplankton. It is an important forage fish for larger fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mitsukuri's sandlance?
The Mitsukuri's sandlance has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very elongated body; burrows quickly into the sand; schooling food fish
Where does the Mitsukuri's sandlance live?
The Mitsukuri's sandlance lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northwest Pacific
How big does the Mitsukuri's sandlance get?
The Mitsukuri's sandlance grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Mitsukuri's sandlance dangerous to humans?
No, the Mitsukuri's sandlance 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 Mitsukuri's sandlance edible?
The Mitsukuri's sandlance is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Ammodytidae
Want the complete picture on the Mitsukuri's sandlance?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mitsukuri's sandlance is one of 12,519 species in the app.