The ornate pipefish, also known as the whiskered or winged pipefish, is a unique species of fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. With a maximum length of 18 cm, it is known for its elongated and thin body with reduced fins. Its body color is highly adaptable and changes with the environment to provide better camouflage. The ornate pipefish ranges in color from reddish to greenish, with a backside covered in small skin growths forming fins and small, irregular whitish spots. The head is small and blends seamlessly into the rest of the body, but its most notable feature is its long snout, which can be covered in skin growths.
Size: 18 cm
Habitat: inhabits coral reefs and other shallow water environments in the Indo-Pacific region. It is typically found amongst seaweed, seagrass, and coral, where it uses its highly adaptable coloration to blend in and avoid predators.
Distribution: The ornate pipefish is widespread throughout the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-West Pacific from the eastern coast of Africa, Red Sea included, until Salomon Islands, from South Japan to the Queensland’s area in Australia and Indonesia.