Latin name

Syngnathus abaster

Identification

The black-striped pipefish possesses a highly elongated, slender body. Its elongated, pipette-like snout is slightly flattened laterally. However, compared to other pipefish species, the snout is relatively short, constituting less than half the head length. The eyes are small.

Populations inhabiting the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea were previously described as distinct species (Syngnathus nigrolineatus and Syngnathus caspius, respectively) but are now considered synonyms of Syngnathus abaster.

Features of Fish Fins

The tail in this species is long and prehensile, used for anchoring to algae and various substrates. The caudal fin is small. Pelvic fins are absent.

Fish Coloration

The black-striped pipefish exhibits variable coloration, ranging from brown to green, with dark or light spots or transverse bands on the abdomen and tail. A dark band on the dorsal fin and a dark belly are often present. The lateral line is complete. Pelvic fins are absent.

Distribution

The species inhabits the European Atlantic coast from the southern Bay of Biscay to Gibraltar, as well as the Mediterranean, Black, Azov, and Caspian Seas. It is also found in the lower reaches of the Danube, Dniester, Western Bug, Dnieper, Don, Ural, Volga, and Kura rivers.

Habitat

It occurs in coastal areas on sandy and muddy substrates within seagrass beds and vegetation, at temperatures ranging from 8 to 24 °C.

Size

The typical length of this species is up to 15 cm, while individuals in the Black Sea reach 21 to 23 cm.

Behavior

Male black-striped pipefish have a specialized brood pouch located on the underside near the tail. The female, and sometimes several females, deposit eggs into this pouch. The pouch opening soon seals. Once embryonic development is complete, the pouch opens to release the free-swimming fry.

Food and Feeding Habits

It feeds on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and fish larvae.

Reproduction

The breeding season lasts from May to August. The male carries the large eggs in his brood pouch for 20–25 days. Sexual maturity is reached after one year.

Fishing

This species is not commercially important.

Relationship with a person

Harmless. Used in aquariums.