How to Identify Sand Diver

To identify Sand Diver (Synodus intermedius), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically light brown to grayish, often with irregular darker blotches or saddles that extend onto the sides, aiding in camouflage. The ventral surface is whitish. A series of 8-10 dark, rectangular blotches are often present along the lateral line. Fins are generally translucent with some dusky markings.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Elongated, cylindrical body, Large, broad head with a prominent snout, Large mouth extending well past the posterior margin of the eye, Numerous sharp, needle-like teeth, including a band of teeth on the tongue, Adipose fin present (a small, fleshy fin without rays, located between the dorsal and caudal fins), Pectoral fins are relatively short, not reaching the origin of the dorsal fin, Pelvic fins are large and located anterior to the dorsal fin origin

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10-13 soft rays, followed by a small adipose fin.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, moderately sized.

Pectoral fin

Short, with 11-13 rays, not reaching the dorsal fin origin.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are large, with 8 rays, and are inserted anterior to the dorsal fin origin. Anal fin has 10-12 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Look for the elongated, cylindrical body with cryptic brown/gray coloration and distinct dark blotches along the lateral line. This camouflage is key to its identification.

2. 2

   Mouth and Teeth

   The very large mouth extending past the eye and the presence of numerous sharp teeth, including on the tongue, are strong indicators.

3. 3

   Adipose Fin

   The presence of a small, fleshy adipose fin between the dorsal and caudal fins is a characteristic of all lizardfishes (family Synodontidae).

4. 4

   Pectoral Fin Length

   Note that the pectoral fins are relatively short and do not reach the origin of the dorsal fin, which helps distinguish it from some other lizardfish species.

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