Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific freshwater pipefish (Pseudophallus elcapitanensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The Pacific freshwater pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from planted streams, rivers and estuaries of the eastern Pacific around Central America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a very slender, stiff, ring-armoured, brown-green body with a tubular snout, strongly camouflaged among water plants. As a slow swimmer it sucks up small crustaceans. The male carries the eggs in a pouch. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific freshwater pipefish?
The Pacific freshwater pipefish has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Pacific freshwater pipefish live?
The Pacific freshwater pipefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. North America: Costa Rica, Panama
How big does the Pacific freshwater pipefish get?
The Pacific freshwater pipefish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Pacific freshwater pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific freshwater 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.
Want the complete picture on the Pacific freshwater pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific freshwater pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudophallus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific freshwater pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific freshwater pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.