Fin's Fish Guide
The West African pipefish (Cosmocampus retropinnis) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The West African pipefish is a small pipefish from coastal and estuarine water of the eastern Atlantic, off West Africa. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, bony-ringed body and a short, tubular snout with which it sucks up small food. It lives among seagrass, weed and roots in shallow water and 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 West African pipefish?
The West African pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Armoured body with a tubular snout; the male carries the eggs
Where does the West African pipefish live?
The West African pipefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Atlantic
How big does the West African pipefish get?
The West African pipefish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the West African pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the West African 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 West African pipefish edible?
The West African pipefish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the West African pipefish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cosmocampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the West African pipefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the West African pipefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.