Fin's Fish Guide
The Duncker's pipefish (Halicampus dunckeri) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Duncker's pipefish is a small pipefish from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a slender, bony-ringed body with skin flaps and protuberances that camouflage it among weeds and rubble. As a bottom-dweller it stays on coral and rocky reefs and sucks up small plankton with its tubular snout. Like other pipefishes the male carries the eggs until they hatch. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Duncker's pipefish?
The Duncker's pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Ringed body with camouflaging skin flaps; the male carries the eggs
Where does the Duncker's pipefish live?
The Duncker's pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Duncker's pipefish get?
The Duncker's pipefish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Duncker's pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Duncker's 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.
Is the Duncker's pipefish edible?
The Duncker's pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Duncker's pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Duncker's 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 Halicampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Duncker's pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Duncker's pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.