Short-Head Pipefish (Siokunichthys breviceps)

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

Short-Head Pipefish

Quick facts

Scientific nameSiokunichthys breviceps
FamilySyngnathidae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size4 in
Minimum tank size50 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C) pH: 8.0-8.4 Salinity: 1.021-1.025
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

Siokunichthys breviceps exhibits an elongated, slender body shape, reaching up to 15 cm in length. It is predominantly brownish-yellow, with a distinctive black lateral line and a narrow, white band near the caudal fin.

Diet and feeding

Zooplankton, small crustaceans (e.g., mysid shrimp), and marine worms in the wild. In aquariums, these can be supplemented with brine shrimp, frozen mysis, and microalgae.

Difficulty and care for the Short-Head 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, Bacterial septicemia, Hole-in-the-head disease

Origin and habitat

The Siokunichthys breviceps is naturally found in the coasts of Indonesia and Malaysia, specifically within the Sulu Sea and South China Sea, at depths ranging from 15 to 90 meters.

Log Short-Head 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 Short-Head Pipefish alongside everything else in your reef.