Fin's Fish Guide
The Ladder pipefish (Festucalex scalaris) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The ladder pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from shallow reef and seagrass water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a thin, bony-ringed, brown-greenish body with a ladder-like pattern of narrow bands and a tubular snout. Strongly camouflaged, it lives among weed and seagrass and sucks in small zooplankton. The male carries the eggs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ladder pipefish?
The Ladder pipefish has a snake-like body and is mainly green.
Where does the Ladder pipefish live?
The Ladder pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Ladder pipefish get?
The Ladder pipefish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Ladder pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ladder 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 Festucalex
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Ladder pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ladder pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.