Fin's Fish Guide
The Pugnose pipefish (Pugnaso curtirostris) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The pugnose pipefish is a pipefish endemic to the temperate coast of southern Australia. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a slender, bony-ringed body and, unlike most pipefishes, a conspicuously short, blunt snout. As a bottom-dweller it stays among seagrass and weeds and sucks up small plankton. Like other pipefishes the male carries the eggs until they hatch. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pugnose pipefish?
The Pugnose pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly short blunt snout; the male carries the eggs
Where does the Pugnose pipefish live?
The Pugnose pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Australia
How big does the Pugnose pipefish get?
The Pugnose pipefish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Pugnose pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pugnose 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 Pugnose pipefish edible?
The Pugnose pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Pugnose pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pugnose pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.