Family Ammodytidae - sand lances
This family of small fishes (less than 30 cm) occurs in the Pacific, Indian
and Atlantic oceans. They form large schools and many species bury themselves in
the sand. Larger predators, such as salmon, utilize the sand lances as a forage
fish.
Pacific sand lance- Ammodytes
hexapterus
Remarks: Rarely seen in the bay
but commonly forms schools outside. Predaceous fishes and marine mammals feed
heavily on these small fish when they are abundant. At times it will dart into
the sandy substrate completely burying itself from which it received its name.
Identification: Recognized by a long slender body with
folds of skin along each side of its belly. The lower jaw projects forward. Both
dorsal and anal fins are long and the caudal is forked.
Range: Can be found offshore and inshore from the surface
to a depth of 47m. Common in southern California to the Bering Sea.