Fin's Fish Guide
The Lesser pipefish (Syngnathus rostellatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Northeast Atlantic coast, including the North Sea, in shallow coastal waters, estuaries and tidal areas among seagrass and seaweeds.
Description
The lesser pipefish is a very thin, long marine fish of the family Syngnathidae, related to the seahorses, reaching about 18 cm. The snake-like body is encased in bony rings and tapers in front into a short, tubular snout with a small mouth, with which the fish sucks in small plankton. It resembles the larger greater pipefish but is smaller, more slender and has a shorter snout. The species lives in shallow coastal waters, estuaries and tidal areas of the North Sea and the north-eastern Atlantic coast, often among seagrass and weeds. Like other pipefishes the male carries the fertilised eggs in a brood pouch under the tail and 'gives birth' to the young. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lesser pipefish?
The Lesser pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Very thin, long little fish with bony rings and a short tubular snout; the male carries the eggs in a brood pouch under the tail.
Where does the Lesser pipefish live?
The Lesser pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic coast, including the North Sea, in shallow coastal waters, estuaries and tidal areas among seagrass and seaweeds.
How big does the Lesser pipefish get?
The Lesser pipefish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Lesser pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Lesser pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lesser pipefish edible?
The Lesser pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Lesser pipefish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Syngnathus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Lesser pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lesser pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.