Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted pipefish (Nerophis maculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, in seagrass and algae beds of shallow coastal water.
Description
The spotted pipefish is a very thin, thread-like pipefish of the family Syngnathidae (pipefishes and seahorses) reaching about 30 cm long but barely thicker than a matchstick. Rows of small red-brown spots run over the brownish body, from which the species takes its name; the snout ends in a small, upturned tube-mouth with which the fish sucks up small zooplankton. Unlike many relatives the spotted pipefish lacks pectoral and tail fins and has only a small dorsal fin. The species lives among seagrass and weeds in shallow coastal water of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic. As in all pipefishes the male carries the eggs glued to his belly until they hatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted pipefish?
The Spotted pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Very thin, thread-like pipefish with rows of small reddish-brown blotches over the body; lacks pectoral and caudal fins and has only a small dorsal fin.
Where does the Spotted pipefish live?
The Spotted pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, in seagrass and algae beds of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Spotted pipefish get?
The Spotted pipefish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Spotted pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted pipefish edible?
The Spotted pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Spotted pipefish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nerophis
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.