Fin's Fish Guide
The Gulf pipefish (Stigmatopora argus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia; seagrass and seaweed in bays and estuaries.
Description
The spotted pipefish is a pipefish of the family Syngnathidae from the temperate waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a very elongate, thin, armoured body with a pattern of fine spots and lines, camouflaging it among seagrass and weed. It usually stays among vegetation in bays and estuaries, sometimes also offshore. With its tubular snout it sucks up small zooplankton and small crustaceans like a pipette. As in seahorses and other pipefishes the male carries the eggs until they hatch. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gulf pipefish?
The Gulf pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Long, thin armoured body with fine spots; the male carries the eggs until they hatch.
Where does the Gulf pipefish live?
The Gulf pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters around southern Australia; seagrass and seaweed in bays and estuaries.
How big does the Gulf pipefish get?
The Gulf pipefish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Gulf pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Gulf pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Gulf pipefish edible?
The Gulf 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 Stigmatopora
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Gulf pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gulf pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.