Ghost pipefish
📖 Overview
This uncommon species is found in coastal reefs and weedy areas or lagoon reefs, often on algal flats or seagrass beds (Ref 90102). Females carry the eggs in their pelvic fins that are modified to form a brood pouch . Adults feed on small crustaceans . Monogamous and always in home-ranging pairs, that is they do not defend an exclusive territory .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 5; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17 - 22; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 17 - 22; Vertebrae: 32 - 33. Color variable (from brown to pink or yellow) with small black and white spots; 2 elongate black spots between first 3 dorsal spines . Total body plates 27-35. Caudal fin truncate, rounded, or lanceolate. Caudal peduncle short or lost in large females . Pelvic fin sexually dimorphic, forming a brood pouch in females . : other; Cross section: flattened.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Ghost pipefish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Ghost pipefish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Monogamous mating is observed as both obligate and genetic .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; non-migratory ; depth range 0 - 25 m , usually 0 - 25 m . Tropical West Pacific: Red Sea and East Africa to Fiji, north to southern Japan, south to Australia.
🌿 Ecology
small crustaceans (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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