How to Identify Pacific Sand Lance

To identify Pacific Sand Lance (Ammodytes personatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

eel-like

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically greenish-blue to olive-brown, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Often has a faint iridescent sheen.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Elongated, slender body, almost cylindrical., Pointed snout with a protruding lower jaw., Absence of pelvic fins., Long dorsal fin extending over most of the back., Small, deeply forked caudal fin.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 54-60 soft rays, originating behind the pectoral fin and extending almost to the caudal fin.

Tail fin

Small, deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Small, located low on the body, with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are entirely absent. Anal fin is long, with 27-32 soft rays, originating well behind the dorsal fin origin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a very slender, elongated, almost snake-like body. This is a key characteristic distinguishing them from many other small fish.

2. 2

   Fin Absence

   The complete absence of pelvic fins is a definitive feature of Ammodytidae. Check the ventral side for any small paired fins; if none are present, it's likely a sand lance.

3. 3

   Mouth Position

   The lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw, giving it a distinctive 'underbite' or superior mouth position.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   Observe the long dorsal fin that runs along most of the back, starting well behind the head.

5. 5

   Behavior

   Their habit of rapidly burying themselves headfirst into sand or gravel when disturbed or for resting is a strong indicator.

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