Fin's Fish Guide
The Sandfish (Gonorynchus forsteri) is a saltwater fish of the family Gonorynchidae that grows up to 49 cm.
Description
Forster's sandfish is a slender bottom fish from the southwest Pacific, around New Zealand and Australia. The species grows to about 49 cm and has a very elongate, torpedo-shaped body with a pointed, inferior snout and a single barbel. As a bottom-dweller it quickly burrows into sandy bottoms and hunts small benthic animals and worms. The fish is harmless to humans and has little commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sandfish?
The Sandfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Pointed inferior snout and a single barbel; fast-burrowing sand-dwelling fish
Where does the Sandfish live?
The Sandfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southwest Pacific
How big does the Sandfish get?
The Sandfish grows to a maximum of about 49 cm.
Is the Sandfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Sandfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Sandfish edible?
The Sandfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gonorynchus
More from the family Gonorynchidae
Want the complete picture on the Sandfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sandfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.