pelagic, saltwater
Sand Eel Larva
Ammodytes sp.
Elongated, slender, eel-like body. Translucent or transparent during larval stage with a series of distinct dark pigment spots along the dorsal or ventral midline. Large black eyes and long dorsal and anal fins.
- Habitat
- Coastal marine waters, often found in the plankton layer…
- Size & weight
- Larvae range from 4 to 20 mm; adults reach up to 15-30 c…
- Diet
- Larvae are suction feeders targeting zooplankton, copepo…
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Physical characteristics
Elongated, slender, eel-like body. Translucent or transparent during larval stage with a series of distinct dark pigment spots along the dorsal or ventral midline. Large black eyes and long dorsal and anal fins.
Habitat & distribution
Coastal marine waters, often found in the plankton layer as larvae before settling into sandy seabed environments in the North Atlantic and North Pacific.
Behavior
Pelagic and planktonic as larvae; as adults, they display burrowing behavior in sandy substrates and gather in large schools.
Diet
Larvae are suction feeders targeting zooplankton, copepods, and invertebrate eggs.
Reproduction
Synchronous spawning typically in winter; eggs are demersal and stick to sand grains until hatching into the planktonic larvae seen here.
Ecological role
Primary forage fish; a critical link in the food web connecting plankton to higher predators like seabirds, whales, and larger fish species.
Similar species
Larval herrings or sardines; distinguished by the sand eel's more elongated body and specific melanophore (pigment) patterns along the spine.
Identification tips
Look for the extremely thin, straight body, the position of the dark spots along the gut and tail, and the lack of a distinct pelvic fin.
Interesting facts
Despite their name, they are not true eels. They lack swim bladders and must swim constantly or burrow to maintain their position.