Fin's Fish Guide
The Ansorge's pipefish (Enneacampus ansorgii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 14 cm.
West and Central Africa; coastal rivers and streams in fresh and brackish water.
Description
Ansorge's pipefish is a pipefish of the family Syngnathidae from West and Central Africa. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a very elongate, thin, armoured body with a long tubular snout, often with reddish tints. Unlike most pipefishes it lives in fresh and brackish water: it inhabits coastal rivers and streams, often among water plants. With its tubular snout it sucks up small zooplankton and tiny crustaceans like a pipette. As in seahorses and other pipefishes the male carries the eggs in a brood structure until they hatch. The species is popular in the aquarium and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ansorge's pipefish?
The Ansorge's pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Rare freshwater pipefish; the male carries the eggs until they hatch.
Where does the Ansorge's pipefish live?
The Ansorge's pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West and Central Africa; coastal rivers and streams in fresh and brackish water.
How big does the Ansorge's pipefish get?
The Ansorge's pipefish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Ansorge's pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ansorge's pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ansorge's pipefish edible?
The Ansorge's pipefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enneacampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Ansorge's pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ansorge's pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.