Ornate Pipefish (Halicampus macrorhynchus)
Fish in the family Syngnathidae. Expert care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Ornate Pipefish is a slender, elongated fish with an ornate snout and elaborate body patterning. Its coloration is typically greenish-brown with white bands or rings along the body, and it displays intricate striping on its head. The body is encased in segmented bony plates characteristic of the Syngnathidae family.
Diet and feeding
Feeds on tiny live crustaceans including copepods and amphipods. In captivity, offer small frozen copepods or specialized prepared foods for pipefish, though live foods are strongly preferred and may be necessary for initial feeding.
Difficulty and care for the Ornate Pipefish
Advanced - Requires experienced care due to sensitive nature specific habitat needs or complex dietary requirements. Best for expert aquarists.
Common health issues
Starvation from inability to compete for food, parasites, bacterial infections, poor water quality sensitivity
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including Indonesia, Philippines, and surrounding waters. Found in shallow seagrass and soft coral habitats at depths typically 5–25 meters.
Log Ornate 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 Ornate Pipefish alongside everything else in your reef.
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