Fin's Fish Guide
The Prickly pipefish (Hypselognathus horridus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
The Prickly pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from shallow seagrass, weedy and coral-rubble water around Australia and the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a very slender, stiff, ring-armoured body with a tubular snout, strongly camouflaged among water plants. As a slow swimmer it sucks up small crustaceans and planktonic animals. The male carries the eggs on his belly or in a pouch. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Prickly pipefish?
The Prickly pipefish has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Prickly pipefish live?
The Prickly pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Prickly pipefish get?
The Prickly pipefish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Prickly pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Prickly 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.
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Prickly 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 Hypselognathus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Prickly pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Prickly pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.