Short-Tailed Pipefish (Microphis brachyurus)

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

Quick facts

Scientific nameMicrophis brachyurus

FamilySyngnathidae

Also known asPez Pipa Culebra, Short-Tailed Pipefish

Care levelHard

Reef safetyReef Safe

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietcarnivore

Adult size5 in

Minimum tank size20 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025

Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

Short-tailed pipefish are elongated, slender fish with a tubular snout and a prehensile tail. Coloration varies from brown to greenish-brown with subtle mottling; they possess a segmented, armored body typical of syngnathids and blend well with seagrass and weedy habitats.

Diet and feeding

Feed small live foods such as copepods, amphipods, and small mysid shrimp. Frozen mysis shrimp may be accepted with patience and conditioning. Multiple small feedings daily are essential since pipefish have tiny mouths and high metabolic rates.

Difficulty and care for the Short-Tailed 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 Disease, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific, including coastal waters from East Africa through Southeast Asia to the Philippines and Indonesia.

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

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