Ammodytes, commonly known as sand eels, are small fish found primarily in the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans. They typically inhabit sandy coastal areas and are known for their elongated bodies and pointed snouts. Sand eels play a crucial role in the marine food web, serving as a primary food source for various predators, including seabirds and larger fish. These fish are characterized by their ability to burrow into the sand, which helps them evade predators. Ammodytes are also important for commercial fishing, as they are harvested for use as bait and for fishmeal. Their populations can be affected by environmental changes and fishing pressures.