Distinguishing Characteristics |
Body elongate, thin, straight; head not at angle to body; snout tubular, long (>50% of head length); mouth small; tail not coiled, caudal fin present; color brownish; body with armored plates forming rings around body; head with silver spot on cheek; distinct body pattern, 3 rings outlined in darker color, 1 ring no outline, repeated; no pelvic or anal fins. |
Similar Species |
Sargassum pipefishes have long snouts and distinct patterning on back and sides (3 rings outlined in darker color, 1 ring with no markings, repeated). This helps distinguish it from other pipefishes. |
Habitat |
Gulf, found in floating sargassum |
Maximum Size |
21 cm (8 1/2 in) |
Fin Element Counts |
D. 28-31 (explain) |
Other Common Names |
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Previous Scientific Names |
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Comments |
As with all pipefishes and seahorse, the male carries and broods the eggs. |
State size/bag limits |
None; Check for state record. |