Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded pipefish (Micrognathus crinitus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The banded pipefish is a small pipefish of the seahorse and pipefish family (Syngnathidae) from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a very slender, tubular body encased in bony rings with a mottled, banded pattern that camouflages it among coral rubble. It lives in pockets of coral rubble on white sand bottoms with low coral growth, usually at some depth. With its tubular snout it sucks up small zooplankton and small crustaceans. Like all pipefishes the male carries the eggs until they hatch. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded pipefish?
The Banded pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Slender body encased in bony rings as camouflage in coral rubble; the male carries the eggs.
Where does the Banded pipefish live?
The Banded pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; coral rubble on sandy bottoms.
How big does the Banded pipefish get?
The Banded pipefish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Banded pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded pipefish edible?
The Banded pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Banded pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.