The Adriatic pipefish (Syngnathus taenionotus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The Adriatic pipefish is a slender pipefish of the family Syngnathidae reaching about 19 cm. The thread-like body with bony rings has a long, tube-shaped snout with a small, upturned mouth, with which the fish sucks up small zooplankton; it often bears narrow, pale cross-bars. The species is largely tied to brackish lagoons, river deltas and seagrass beds of the Adriatic Sea and surroundings, in shallow, soft water. Among the seagrass its slender shape makes it almost invisible. As in all pipefishes the male carries the eggs: they mature in a brood pouch on his belly until the young hatch. Because of its small size and dependence on lagoons it is sensitive to degradation of that habitat.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Adriatic pipefish?
The Adriatic pipefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Adriatic pipefish live?
The Adriatic pipefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds.
How big does the Adriatic pipefish get?
The Adriatic pipefish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Adriatic pipefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Adriatic pipefish is harmless to humans.
Is the Adriatic pipefish edible?
The Adriatic pipefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Syngnathus
More from the family Syngnathidae
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