Fin's Fish Guide
The Flat-nosed pipefish (Microphis argulus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Oceania: Solomon Is., Comoros, Mayotte, Fiji, Marquesas Is., French Polynesia and others
Description
The flat-nosed pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) that inhabits fresh, brackish and coastal water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a very slender, stiff, bony-ringed body and a flattened, tubular snout. With this it sucks up small zooplankton. It lives among water plants and bank roots of rivers and estuaries. Like other pipefishes the male carries and broods the eggs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flat-nosed pipefish?
The Flat-nosed pipefish has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Flat-nosed pipefish live?
The Flat-nosed pipefish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Solomon Is., Comoros, Mayotte, Fiji, Marquesas Is., French Polynesia and others
How big does the Flat-nosed pipefish get?
The Flat-nosed pipefish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Flat-nosed pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Flat-nosed 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Microphis
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Flat-nosed pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flat-nosed pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.