Sand Smelt

Identification

A slender, elongated fish of 12 to 20 cm with a striking silver lateral stripe. Translucent greenish back. Round body with a small, upturned mouth. Two separate dorsal fins.

Ecology

Lives in large schools in shallow coastal waters, harbors, and estuaries. Feeds on plankton and small crustaceans. Eggs are attached to seagrass with adhesive threads.

In the Netherlands

Common along the coast. Ecologically important as prey for terns, gulls, and larger predatory fish.