The Banded pipefish (Choeroichthys cinctus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and others
Description
The banded pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from shallow reef, weed and seagrass water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, armoured, tubular body with dark crossbars and a short, tubular snout. As a calm dweller it shelters among coral rubble, weed and seagrass and sucks up minute crustaceans. As in all pipefishes the male carries the eggs until they hatch. The fish 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 vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Banded pipefish live?
The Banded pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and others
How big does the Banded pipefish get?
The Banded pipefish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Banded pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Choeroichthys
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.