Fin's Fish Guide
The Chain pipefish (Syngnathus louisianae) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, in seagrass beds, floating seaweed and estuaries.
Description
The chain pipefish is a long, thin, stiff pipefish of the family Syngnathidae reaching about 38 cm. The thread-like body is encased in bony rings instead of scales and ends in a tube-shaped snout with which the fish sucks in small zooplankton and shrimp-like crustaceans. A chain-like pattern of dark blotches runs along the flank, from which the species takes its name. It lives among seagrass, drifting weed and in estuaries along the western Atlantic coast from the USA to Brazil. As in seahorses the male broods the eggs in a pouch on its belly and 'gives birth' to live young. Because of its small size it has no fishery value, but it is a link in the seagrass food web.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chain pipefish?
The Chain pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Long, thin, stiff small pipefish with a tubular snout and a chain-like pattern of blotches; the male carries the eggs to term in a pouch.
Where does the Chain pipefish live?
The Chain pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, in seagrass beds, floating seaweed and estuaries.
How big does the Chain pipefish get?
The Chain pipefish grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Chain pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Chain pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chain pipefish edible?
The Chain pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Chain pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chain pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Chain pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chain pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.