Fin's Fish Guide
The Barcheek pipefish (Syngnathus exilis) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America; sandy beaches and floating seaweed.
Description
The barcheek pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from the eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America. The species has a very slender, bony-ringed armoured body and a tubular snout. It keeps near sandy beaches, often among drifting seaweed, where its thin body blends in well. With its tubular snout it sucks up small zooplankton and small crustaceans. Like all pipefishes the male carries the eggs in a brood pouch under the tail. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barcheek pipefish?
The Barcheek pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Very slender small pipefish of sandy beaches and floating seaweed; the male carries the eggs in a brood pouch.
Where does the Barcheek pipefish live?
The Barcheek pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America; sandy beaches and floating seaweed.
How big does the Barcheek pipefish get?
The Barcheek pipefish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Barcheek pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Barcheek pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barcheek pipefish edible?
The Barcheek 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 Syngnathus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Barcheek pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barcheek pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.