Fin's Fish Guide
The Belly pipefish (Hippichthys heptagonus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The belly pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a thin, elongate body with an angular build armoured by bony rings and a tube-shaped snout. It is common in the lower reaches of rivers and streams and in estuaries, where it tolerates brackish water. With its snout it sucks up small zooplankton. 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 Belly pipefish?
The Belly pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Angular armoured body; estuarine pipefish in which the male carries the eggs.
Where does the Belly pipefish live?
The Belly pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific; lower reaches of rivers and estuaries.
How big does the Belly pipefish get?
The Belly pipefish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Belly pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Belly pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Belly pipefish edible?
The Belly 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 Hippichthys
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Belly pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Belly pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.