Fin's Fish Guide
The Obscure pipefish (Phoxocampus diacanthus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The doubled-spined pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a thin, elongate, dark body armoured with bony rings and a tube-shaped snout. It lives concealed among rock and coral of lagoon and seaward reefs, from the surf zone to about forty metres depth. With its snout it sucks up small zooplankton. The male carries the eggs until they hatch. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Obscure pipefish?
The Obscure pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark, armoured reef pipefish; the male carries the eggs until they hatch.
Where does the Obscure pipefish live?
The Obscure pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; rock and coral of reefs.
How big does the Obscure pipefish get?
The Obscure pipefish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Obscure pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Obscure pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Obscure pipefish edible?
The Obscure pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Phoxocampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Obscure pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Obscure pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.