Hidden life beneath the sand

Sandy shore communities display an apparently less rich fauna and flora than rocky shore communities, or at least one that is more difficult to observe, as a large proportion of organisms live buried in the sand.

This habitat is home to numerous species that have adapted their way of life to remain hidden and protected.

Masters of cryptic colouring

Sandy zones are the realm of flatfish, as well as of rays, soles and weevers. They are characterised by sandy tones and a pigmentation with small light and dark spots — a cryptic colouring that allows them to blend perfectly with the sandy seabed.

Often, the only sign of their presence is a faint outline in the sand or two small eyes moving independently, giving away their camouflage.

Invertebrates of the sandy seabed

Among the marine invertebrates, the most notable are clams, which live buried in large numbers, alongside sea snails, cuttlefish, starfish, brittle stars and sea cucumbers and various crustaceans that take refuge in the sand.

These organisms play a key role in the balance and health of the ecosystem.