Fin's Fish Guide
The Hairy pipefish (Urocampus nanus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The hairy pipefish is a small pipefish (Syngnathidae) from shallow coastal waters with seagrass and weed of the western Pacific, including Australia and East Asia. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a very thin, elongate body armoured with bony rings, often with small skin tabs that camouflage it among the blades, and a short tubular snout. It sucks in small zooplankton; the male carries the eggs under its tail. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hairy pipefish?
The Hairy pipefish has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Hairy pipefish live?
The Hairy pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South)
How big does the Hairy pipefish get?
The Hairy pipefish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Hairy pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Hairy 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Urocampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Hairy pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hairy pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.