Alligator Pipefish (Syngnathoides biaculeatus)

Fish in the family Syngnathidae. Expert care. Reef Safe.

Alligator Pipefish

Quick facts

Scientific nameSyngnathoides biaculeatus
FamilySyngnathidae
Also known asDouble-End Pipehorse
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietplanktivore
Adult size7 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

Syngnathoides biaculeatus is an elongated, tube-mouthed fish with a distinctly segmented body and two prominent bony spines near the tail base (biaculeatus = "two-spined"). Coloration ranges from brown to tan with mottled patterning that provides excellent camouflage in seagrass habitats.

Diet and feeding

Marine copepods, small crustaceans, brine shrimp (artemia), and mysid shrimp in both wild and aquarium settings.

Difficulty and care for the Alligator Pipefish

Advanced - Requires experienced care due to sensitive nature specific habitat needs or complex dietary requirements. Best for expert aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Hole in the head disease, Columnaris

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from Indonesia to the Philippines and surrounding regions, typically found in shallow seagrass beds and mangrove areas.

Log Alligator Pipefish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Alligator Pipefish alongside everything else in your reef.