The Many-banded pipefish (Dunckerocampus multiannulatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The many-banded pipefish is a large, colourful pipefish from the western Indian Ocean, including the Red Sea. The species grows to about 19 cm and has an extremely slender body banded along its whole length with numerous narrow dark rings, and a striking red, white-edged, fan-shaped tail. It lives among coral and in caves on the reef and acts partly as a cleaner fish. As in pipefishes, the male carries the eggs. The fish appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Many-banded pipefish?
The Many-banded pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Numerous dark rings and a red fan-shaped tail; cleaner pipefish, male carries the eggs
Where does the Many-banded pipefish live?
The Many-banded pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Indian Ocean
How big does the Many-banded pipefish get?
The Many-banded pipefish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Many-banded pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Many-banded 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.
Is the Many-banded pipefish edible?
The Many-banded pipefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dunckerocampus
More from the family Syngnathidae

Want the complete picture on the Many-banded pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Many-banded pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.