The Family Trichodontidae belongs to the class of fish known as Scorpaeniformes. These fish are also commonly referred to as sandfish or sand lances. Other synonyms for Trichodontidae include the families Pholidae and Ammodytidae, as well as the genus Ammodytes. Sandfish are typically found in shallow coastal waters, and their elongated bodies allow them to easily burrow into sand and mud. These fish are known for their sharp teeth and their ability to dig up prey from the sand. Despite their slender appearance, sandfish are an important food source for many species of larger fish and marine mammals.