Pipefishes
Banded pipefish (Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus)
The Banded pipefish (Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus) belongs to the family Syngnathidae (pipefishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen in groups or alone. It reaches about 15 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Data Deficient. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus |
|---|---|
| Family | Pipefishes (Syngnathidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce ago a bande |
| Common name (EN) | Banded pipefish |
| Maximum size | 15 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | DD — Data Deficient |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Banded pipefish belong to?
- The Banded pipefish (Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus) belongs to the family Syngnathidae (pipefishes).
- Is the Banded pipefish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Banded pipefish endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Banded pipefish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 15 cm.
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