Fin's Fish Guide
The Alligator pipefish (Syngnathoides biaculeatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Indo-Pacific, in sheltered shallow coastal waters among algae, seagrass and floating seaweed.
Description
The alligator pipefish is a pipefish (family Syngnathidae) of the Indo-Pacific. The species reaches about 29 cm and has an elongate, angular, green to brown body with a tubular snout and a prehensile tail with which it clings to vegetation. It lives in protected shallow coastal waters among algae, seagrass and floating weeds, where it hunts small zooplankton and small crustaceans while well camouflaged. Like all pipefishes the male carries the eggs until they hatch. The species is traded dried for traditional medicine and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Alligator pipefish?
The Alligator pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Pipefish with a prehensile tail that clings to seagrass; the male carries the eggs until they hatch.
Where does the Alligator pipefish live?
The Alligator pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, in sheltered shallow coastal waters among algae, seagrass and floating seaweed.
How big does the Alligator pipefish get?
The Alligator pipefish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Alligator pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Alligator pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Alligator pipefish edible?
The Alligator pipefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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More from the family Syngnathidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Alligator pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.