Fin's Fish Guide
The Upside-down pipefish (Heraldia nocturna) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The upside-down pipefish is a small pipefish from the southwest Pacific, off southern Australia. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, bony-ringed body and a short, tubular snout. It owes its name to its habit of hovering belly-up, upside down, against the ceiling of ledges, caves and under stones. It feeds on minute crustaceans. As in pipefishes, the male carries the eggs. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Upside-down pipefish?
The Upside-down pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Hovers upside down against overhangs and in caves; male carries the eggs
Where does the Upside-down pipefish live?
The Upside-down pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Southern Australia
How big does the Upside-down pipefish get?
The Upside-down pipefish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Upside-down pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Upside-down 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 Upside-down pipefish edible?
The Upside-down 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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Upside-down pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.