Fin's Fish Guide
The African freshwater pipefish (Microphis aculeatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Africa: Angola, Cameroon, Congo, Congo Dem Rp, Benin, Eq Guinea and others
Description
The African freshwater pipefish is a freshwater pipefish (Syngnathidae) from lower river reaches, estuaries and seagrass beds of rivers and estuaries of West and Central Africa. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a very thin, bony-ringed, brown-greenish body and a tubular snout. Strongly camouflaged, it hovers among water plants, roots and weed and sucks in small zooplankton and larvae. The male carries the eggs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African freshwater pipefish?
The African freshwater pipefish has a snake-like body and is mainly green.
Where does the African freshwater pipefish live?
The African freshwater pipefish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Africa: Angola, Cameroon, Congo, Congo Dem Rp, Benin, Eq Guinea and others
How big does the African freshwater pipefish get?
The African freshwater pipefish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the African freshwater pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the African freshwater pipefish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Microphis
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the African freshwater pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African freshwater pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.