Discover the diverse world of fish in the waters of Zeeland. Learn about the various species, their unique behaviors, and the important roles they play in marine ecosystems. Explore their habitats, feeding habits, and how they contribute to the underwater biodiversity in Zeeland’s seas.
Sandeel (Ammodytes tobianus) – Zandspiering Taxonomy: The Thicklip Mullet, scientifically known as Chelon labrosus, belongs to the family Mugilidae. Its name comes from its characteristic thick upper lip, which is more pronounced than in other mullets. Species: This species is widely found along the coasts of Europe and North Africa. It’s one of the largest…
Sand eels (Ammodytes tobianus) – Zandspiering Taxonomy: The Sand eel belongs to the Ammodytidae family, known for their elongated bodies and burrowing behavior. Species: There are around five recognized species of Sand eels, with Ammodytes tobianus being the most common in Europe. Reproduction: Females lay thousands of eggs in shallow waters, which are fertilized externally….
Sand Smelt (Atherina presbyter) – Spiering Taxonomy: The Sand Smelt is part of the Atherinidae family. This family includes other small, silvery fish often found in shallow coastal waters. Species: The Atherina presbyter is the most common Sand Smelt species in European waters, growing up to 20 cm in length. Reproduction: Spawn in shallow waters,…
Herring (Clupea harengus) – Haring Taxonomy: Herring belong to the Clupeidae family. Which also includes sardines and anchovies. Species: The Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) is the most common species. Known for forming large schools in the North Atlantic. Reproduction: Spawn in shallow coastal waters, laying thousands of eggs that attach to rocks or seaweed. The…
Gobies (Gobiidae) -Grondels Taxonomy: Gobies belong to the Gobiidae family. One of the largest fish families in the world. This family includes over 2,000 species, ranging from tiny to medium-sized fish. Species: Some common species found in Zeeland include the Sand Goby (Pomatoschistus minutus), Black Goby (Gobius niger), and Rock Goby (Gobius paganellus). Reproduction: Gobies…
Wrasse (Labridae Family) – Lipvissen Taxonomy: Wrasse belong to the Labridae family. One of the largest families of fish in the world. Consisting of over 600 species. They are known for their vibrant colors and complex behaviors. Species: Popular species include the Ballan Wrasse (Labrus bergylta) and the Corkwing Wrasse (Symphodus melops). Which can be…
Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) – Zeebaars Taxonomy: The European Bass belongs to the Moronidae family, a group of temperate bass species known for their streamlined bodies and silver scales. Species: Dicentrarchus labrax is commonly found in European waters, especially in the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea. Reproduction: They spawn during spring, with females releasing thousands…
Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) – Kabeljauw Taxonomy: The Atlantic Cod belongs to the Gadidae family, which includes species like haddock and pollock. They are recognized by their three dorsal fins and whisker-like barbel on their chin. Species: There are several species of cod, but the Atlantic Cod is the most widely known, found in both…
Pipefish (Syngnathus acus) – Grote Zeenaald Taxonomy: The pipefish belongs to the Syngnathidae family, which also includes seahorses and sea dragons. Their name translates to “fused jaws,” describing their long, tubular snouts. Species: The great pipefish (Syngnathus acus) is the largest pipefish species in Europe, growing up to 45 cm long. Reproduction: Much like their…
Rock Gunnel (Pholis gunnellus ) – Botervis Taxonomy: The Rock Gunnel belongs to the Pholidae family, which includes gunnels and similar elongated fish. Its scientific name, Pholis gunnellus, reflects its unique body shape and habitat. Species: The Rock Gunnel is the most common species of its genus. It can grow up to 25 cm in…
