zandersnoekbaars

The zandersnoekbaars, commonly known as the sand catfish or sand whiff (*Plotosus lineatus*), is a species of marine catfish native to the Indo-Pacific region. This species is widely distributed across coastal waters, estuaries, and even freshwater habitats in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Australia, and parts of Southeast Asia. The zandersnoekbaars is known for its elongated, eel-like body, which can reach lengths of up to 60 centimeters, though most individuals are smaller.

This catfish possesses a distinctive dark, mottled pattern along its body, often blending with sandy or muddy substrates, which aids in camouflage. It is a bottom-dwelling species, typically found in shallow waters where it feeds on small invertebrates, crustaceans, and occasionally small fish. The zandersnoekbaars is also notable for its ability to survive in low-oxygen environments, a trait shared with other members of the Plotosidae family.

In terms of behavior, the zandersnoekbaars is generally solitary and nocturnal, becoming more active during the night to forage. It is also known for its unique respiratory adaptations, including the ability to breathe atmospheric air when submerged, allowing it to endure prolonged periods in hypoxic conditions. This species plays a role in its ecosystem by controlling populations of smaller invertebrates.

While not commonly targeted by commercial fisheries, the zandersnoekbaars is sometimes caught as bycatch or for local consumption in parts of its range. Its ecological importance and adaptability make it a subject of interest in marine biology studies, particularly in research on respiratory physiology and environmental tolerance. Conservation status for this species is currently assessed as stable, with no major threats identified at a broad scale.