Fin's Fish Guide
The Ragged-tail pipefish (Microphis retzii) is a freshwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
Retzius's freshwater pipefish is a pipefish (Syngnathidae) from the Indo-West Pacific, unusual in living largely in fresh water. The species has a very slender, bony-ringed armoured body and a tubular snout. It inhabits clear streams and rivers, sometimes far inland. With its tubular snout it sucks up small zooplankton and small invertebrates. Like all pipefishes the male carries the eggs, here on the underside of the body. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ragged-tail pipefish?
The Ragged-tail pipefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Unusual freshwater pipefish; the male carries the eggs on the underside of the body.
Where does the Ragged-tail pipefish live?
The Ragged-tail pipefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Indo-West Pacific; clear streams and rivers (mainly fresh water).
How big does the Ragged-tail pipefish get?
The Ragged-tail pipefish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Ragged-tail pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ragged-tail pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ragged-tail pipefish edible?
The Ragged-tail pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Ragged-tail pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ragged-tail 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 Microphis
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Ragged-tail pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ragged-tail pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.