American sand lance – Ammodytes americanus

Ammodytes americanus, commonly known as the American sand lance, is a species of fish belonging to the sand lance family (Ammodytidae). This slender, eel-like fish is a common sight in coastal waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, playing a crucial role in the marine food web.

Description & Characteristics

Ammodytes americanus is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 23.5 cm. Its body is elongated and cylindrical, with a pointed head and a slightly forked tail. The fish is typically silver in color with a dark back and a light belly. The most distinguishing feature of the American sand lance is its lack of scales. Instead, its body is covered in a layer of mucus that helps it to move through the sand.

Habitat and Occurrence

Ammodytes americanus is a demersal fish, meaning it lives on or near the bottom of the ocean. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including sandy bottoms, muddy bottoms, and estuaries. The species is known to inhabit depths ranging from the surface to 73 meters, primarily occupying the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf. This adaptability allows Ammodytes americanus to thrive in diverse marine ecosystems along the Atlantic coast.

Taxonomy

Ammodytes americanus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Ammodytidae. This classification places the American sand lance among the bony fishes, a group that encompasses a vast majority of fish species. Within the Perciformes, the largest order of fishes, Ammodytes americanus shares characteristics with a diverse array of species, including perch, bass, and tuna. The Ammodytidae family consists of sand lances, which are typically characterized by their elongated bodies, lack of scales, and burrowing habits.

Feeding

Ammodytes americanus is a voracious predator, feeding primarily on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and other invertebrates. They are often found in large schools, which allows them to effectively forage and avoid predation. Their diet contributes significantly to their role as a crucial link in the marine food chain.