Fin's Fish Guide
The Pelagic pipefish (Syngnathus pelagicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The sargassum pipefish is a small pipefish (family Syngnathidae) of the open Atlantic. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a very elongate, thin and ringed body with a tubular snout with which it sucks up small crustaceans. It lives among floating mats of sargassum weed, where its brown colour provides perfect camouflage. As in all pipefishes the male carries the eggs: the female deposits them in a brood pouch beneath the male's tail, which then incubates and gives birth to the young. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pelagic pipefish?
The Pelagic pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Tubular snout; the male carries the eggs in a brood pouch; lives among sargassum weed.
Where does the Pelagic pipefish live?
The Pelagic pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Open Atlantic Ocean, among floating sargassum weed.
How big does the Pelagic pipefish get?
The Pelagic pipefish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Pelagic pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pelagic 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 Pelagic pipefish edible?
The Pelagic 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 Syngnathus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Pelagic pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pelagic pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.