Fin's Fish Guide
The Straightnose pipefish (Nerophis ophidion) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Northeast Atlantic, North Sea, Baltic Sea and Mediterranean Sea, in seagrass and algal beds of shallow coastal water.
Description
The straightnose 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. The straight snout ends in a small, upturned tube-mouth, with which the fish sucks up small zooplankton. Unlike many relatives the straightnose pipefish lacks pectoral and tail fins and has only a small dorsal fin. The greenish to brown body blends perfectly among seagrass and weeds. The species lives in shallow seagrass and algae beds of the north-eastern Atlantic, the North Sea, the Baltic and the Mediterranean. As in all pipefishes the male carries the eggs: in summer they stick glued to his belly until they hatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Straightnose pipefish?
The Straightnose pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Very thin, thread-like pipefish with a straight snout; lacks pectoral and caudal fins and has only a small dorsal fin. The male carries the eggs on its belly.
Where does the Straightnose pipefish live?
The Straightnose pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Northeast Atlantic, North Sea, Baltic Sea and Mediterranean Sea, in seagrass and algal beds of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Straightnose pipefish get?
The Straightnose pipefish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Straightnose pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Straightnose pipefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Straightnose pipefish edible?
The Straightnose pipefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Straightnose 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 Straightnose pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Straightnose pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.