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What is a Sandfish?

Kathryn Hulick
Kathryn Hulick

Sandfish is the common name for six different types of animals that live or burrow in sand, including one that isn't a fish at all. The sandfish (Scincus scincus), a species of skink, is a lizard that earned its misleading name because of the way it swims beneath the sand in the deserts of northern Africa and the middle east. This lizard's skillful method of moving through sand has inspired materials scientists to improve industrial technologies that handle grainy substances like gravel or flour. Often kept as a pet, this yellow and brown-striped lizard grows to about 8 inches (20 cm).

The beaked salmon (Gonorynchus gonorynchus) is a type of sandfish that is also commonly called a sandfish, sand eel, mousefish, or ratfish. Found in sandy, shallow tropical waters around the world, this skinny fish hides beneath the sand or mud during the day and hunts at night. It grows to about 20 inches (55 cm) and is sometimes fished for food.

The sandfish is a lizard that swims beneath the sand in the deserts of northern Africa.
The sandfish is a lizard that swims beneath the sand in the deserts of northern Africa.

Southern sandfishes (Leptoscopidae) are a family of fish with four separate species. They are characterized by fringed lips, long fins, and eyes near the very top of the head. One species commonly known as the estuary stargazer lives in shallow waters around New Zealand.

The belted sandfish (Serranus subligarius) grows to 4 inches (10 cm) and can be found in warm western Atlantic oceans from North Carolina to Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. Resembling a small sea bass, this fish is hermaphroditic, meaning it has both male and female sex organs at different stages of its life.

One sandfish, a kind of sea cucumber (Holuthuria scabra), is sometimes jokingly called the "garlic bread" sea cucumber because it is a tasty delicacy in China and its shape and size, up to 8 inches (20 cm), mimic a loaf of bread. Sometimes, it even has black bars along its back that look like grill marks. Over-harvesting and human development of the coastal areas where this type of sandfish lives, has resulted it in being named a vulnerable species in Singapore.

The rarest kind of sandfish, however, is the clanwilliam sandfish (Labeo seeberi), which lives only in the Olifants river system in South Africa. As of 2001, invasive fish species and habitat destruction had reduced this fish's distribution area to only 5 percent of what it once was. This bottom feeder thrives on algae and small invertebrates. The Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve in South Africa maintains a healthy population of this fish, which is listed as endangered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a sandfish?

A sandfish is a type of skink, specifically the species Scincus scincus, which is known for its remarkable ability to 'swim' through sand. This reptile has a streamlined body and limbs adapted for burrowing, allowing it to navigate through desert environments with ease. It's a fascinating example of evolutionary adaptation to a niche habitat.

Where can sandfish be found in the wild?

Sandfish are native to the deserts of North Africa and Southwest Asia. They thrive in arid, sandy environments where their unique burrowing abilities give them an advantage in escaping predators and extreme heat. They are often found in the Sahara Desert, one of the most iconic habitats for these creatures.

What do sandfish eat?

Sandfish are insectivores, primarily feeding on ants and other small insects they find in their desert habitats. Their diet is adapted to the availability of prey in these regions, and they use their keen sense of vibration to detect and capture food beneath the sand's surface.

How do sandfish 'swim' through sand?

Sandfish locomotion is a marvel of nature. They use lateral undulations of their body, similar to the movements of a fish in water, to propel themselves through sand. According to biomechanics research, their smooth, shiny scales reduce friction, allowing them to move quickly and efficiently below the surface.

Are sandfish endangered?

Currently, sandfish are not listed as endangered. However, like many species, they face threats from habitat destruction and the illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts are important to ensure their survival, especially as desert ecosystems face increasing pressures from climate change and human activities.

Can sandfish be kept as pets?

While sandfish can be kept as pets, they require specialized care to mimic their natural habitat, including a temperature-controlled environment with fine sand for burrowing. Prospective owners should thoroughly research their needs and commit to providing a proper setup to ensure the well-being of these unique reptiles.

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    • The sandfish is a lizard that swims beneath the sand in the deserts of northern Africa.
      By: Ruslan Olinchuk
      The sandfish is a lizard that swims beneath the sand in the deserts of northern Africa.