Fin's Fish Guide
The Broadnosed pipefish (Syngnathus typhle) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Northeast Atlantic coast, the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, among seagrass and seaweeds in shallow coastal and brackish water.
Description
The broadnosed pipefish is a pipefish of the family Syngnathidae, related to the seahorses, reaching about 35 cm. Unlike most pipefishes this species has a strikingly tall, laterally compressed snout almost as deep as the head, which earns it the name 'deep-snouted pipefish'. The snake-like, greenish to brown body is encased in bony rings and blends perfectly among seagrass. The species lives among seagrass and weeds in shallow coastal and brackish water of the North Sea, the Baltic, the north-eastern Atlantic coast and the Mediterranean. With its snout it sucks up small zooplankton and crustaceans. Like other pipefishes the male carries the eggs in a brood pouch under the tail and 'gives birth' to the young.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broadnosed pipefish?
The Broadnosed pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Pipefish with a strikingly deep, laterally flattened snout, as deep as the head; the male carries the eggs in a brood pouch under the tail.
Where does the Broadnosed pipefish live?
The Broadnosed pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic coast, the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, among seagrass and seaweeds in shallow coastal and brackish water.
How big does the Broadnosed pipefish get?
The Broadnosed pipefish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Broadnosed pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Broadnosed pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Broadnosed pipefish edible?
The Broadnosed pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Broadnosed pipefish and live in the same waters.
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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 Broadnosed pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broadnosed pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.