The Kaup's pipefish (Enneacampus kaupi) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
Kaup's pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from West Africa. The species has a very slender, bony-ringed armoured body and a tubular snout. It is mainly a brackish-water species: it occurs in coastal rivers and estuaries and only occasionally enters fresh water. With its tubular snout it sucks up small zooplankton and small crustaceans. Like all pipefishes the male carries the eggs in a brood pouch under the tail. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Kaup's pipefish?
The Kaup's pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Kaup's pipefish live?
The Kaup's pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Kaup's pipefish get?
The Kaup's pipefish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Kaup's pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Kaup's pipefish is harmless to humans.
Is the Kaup's pipefish edible?
The Kaup's pipefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enneacampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
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