Mediterranean Sand Eel and Similar Species
Gymnammodytes cicerelus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Mediterranean Sand Eel. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Greater Sand Eel
Hyperoplus lanceolatus
Key differences: Larger size (up to 30-40 cm), presence of scales (though small), and a prominent black spot on the snout. The dorsal fin origin is further back, and the lower jaw is less protrusible.
Small Sand Eel
Ammodytes tobianus
Key differences: Has small scales (though often difficult to see), a less pointed snout, and the dorsal fin starts further back. Its geographic range is primarily in the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea, with limited overlap in the Mediterranean.
Raitt's Sand Eel
Ammodytes marinus
Key differences: Similar in appearance but also possesses small scales and has a more northern distribution, primarily in the North Atlantic.
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