The sand eel, also known as Ammodytes, is a small fish found in sandy coastal waters. They are elongated and can grow up to 30 centimeters in length. Sand eels are important prey for various marine animals, including seabirds and larger fish, due to their abundance in the ecosystem. These fish typically burrow into the sand to avoid predators and are often found in large schools. Sand eels play a crucial role in the food chain, serving as a vital source of nutrition for many species. They are also significant in commercial fishing, particularly in Europe, where they are harvested for bait and animal feed.