Fin's Fish Guide
The Broad-banded pipefish (Dunckerocampus boylei) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The broad-banded pipefish is a colourful pipefish (Syngnathidae) from the tropical Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a very slender, stiff, bony-ringed body with conspicuous, broad red-brown crossbars on a white ground and a red fan-shaped tail. As a reef-dweller it lives hidden in caves and under overhangs and sucks up small zooplankton with its tubular snout. The male carries and broods the eggs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broad-banded pipefish?
The Broad-banded pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Broad-banded pipefish live?
The Broad-banded pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia, Mauritius, Timor-Leste
How big does the Broad-banded pipefish get?
The Broad-banded pipefish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Broad-banded pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Broad-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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dunckerocampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Broad-banded pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broad-banded pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.