The Hardwick's pipehorse (Solegnathus hardwickii) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Asia: Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Mauritius, New Caledonia and others
Description
Hardwick's pipehorse is a pipehorse (Syngnathidae) from deeper reef, weed and seagrass water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a long, slender, strongly armoured body that grades from a pipefish-like form to a prehensile tail like a seahorse, with a tubular snout. As a slow dweller it holds onto weed and coral with its tail and sucks up minute crustaceans. The male carries the eggs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hardwick's pipehorse?
The Hardwick's pipehorse has a snake-like body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Hardwick's pipehorse live?
The Hardwick's pipehorse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Mauritius, New Caledonia and others
How big does the Hardwick's pipehorse get?
The Hardwick's pipehorse grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Hardwick's pipehorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Hardwick's pipehorse 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 Solegnathus
More from the family Syngnathidae

Want the complete picture on the Hardwick's pipehorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hardwick's pipehorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.