The distribution of larval sand eels (Ammodytidae) in the southern North Sea

Abstract

The distributions of four species of larval Ammodytidae in the Southern North Sea are described. Two separate broods of Ammodytes lancea larvae were found, in spring and autumn. The spring larvae occurred in the areas of the Thames and Wash, and the autumn type mainly off the French and Dutch coasts. A description of these larvae is given. Larvae of Gymnamtnodytes semisquamatus were found in the Southern Bight area and in several areas off the Humber. Few larvae of Ammodytes lanceolatus were taken: they occurred in the Southern Bight and Dowsing areas. A. marinus larvae were found in two areas off the Humber and in the Southern Bight. There is evidence for a spawning area some distance to the west of the Dover Strait.