Fin's Fish Guide
The Anderson's pipefish (Micrognathus andersonii) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
Anderson's pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an elongate body armoured with bony rings, a short, tube-shaped snout and a mottled pattern. It inhabits tide pools, reef flats and shallow sand flats among algae or seagrass to a few metres depth. With its snout it sucks up small crustaceans and other zooplankton. The male carries the eggs in a brood pouch. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Anderson's pipefish?
The Anderson's pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Short tubular snout and an armoured body; the male broods the eggs in a brood pouch.
Where does the Anderson's pipefish live?
The Anderson's pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; tide pools and seagrass flats.
How big does the Anderson's pipefish get?
The Anderson's pipefish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Anderson's pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Anderson's pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Anderson's pipefish edible?
The Anderson's pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Anderson's pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Anderson's pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Micrognathus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Anderson's pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Anderson's pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.