Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown-banded pipefish (Corythoichthys amplexus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The brown-banded pipefish is a small pipefish of the family Syngnathidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a very thin, armoured body with a long tubular snout and a finely mottled pattern of bands, camouflaging it among coral and rubble. It inhabits coral reefs, where it lives hidden among the substrate. With its tubular snout it sucks up small zooplankton and tiny crustaceans like a pipette. As in seahorses and other pipefishes the male carries the eggs until they hatch. Owing to its small size the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown-banded pipefish?
The Brown-banded pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Very thin, camouflaged body with a tubular snout; the male carries the eggs until they hatch.
Where does the Brown-banded pipefish live?
The Brown-banded pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coral reefs with coral and rubble.
How big does the Brown-banded pipefish get?
The Brown-banded pipefish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Brown-banded pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown-banded pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brown-banded pipefish edible?
The Brown-banded 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 Corythoichthys
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Brown-banded pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown-banded pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.