Where Does Mediterranean Sand Smelt Live?

Mediterranean Sand Smelt lives in specific habitats. Knowing where to look helps you find and identify it.

Where to find Mediterranean Sand Smelt

Water type

saltwater

Depth

Typically found in shallow coastal waters, from the surface down to about 20 meters (65 feet), though occasionally deeper.

Environment

Prefers sandy bottoms, seagrass beds (e.g., Posidonia oceanica), and rocky areas near the coast. Often found in estuaries and lagoons, tolerating a range of salinities. Forms large schools, especially juveniles.

Geographic range

Eastern Atlantic Ocean from the Bay of Biscay to Mauritania, including the Canary Islands and Madeira. Widespread throughout the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.

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