Latin name

Dunckerocampus boylei

Other name

Dunckerocampus boylei

Identification

The species name is in honor of Bill Boyle, an underwater photographer who brought the species to Kuiter's attention.

The Broad-banded Pipefish has an elongated, slender body. The head has a tubular snout. The tail is long and can be used to attach itself to aquatic plants and objects.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal soft rays (total): 21; Anal soft rays: 4. Pelvic fins are absent.

Fish colouring

Broad-banded Pipefish have broad stripes and a distinctive tail fin pattern.

Distribution

Occupies the Red Sea, Mauritius and Indonesia, but is thought to be widespread throughout the Indian Ocean. 

Habitat

A deep-sea benthic species. Its depth range is 20-40 meters. 

Size

Can grow to a length of 16 centimeters (6.3 inches).

Behavior

Non-migratory fish. They live alone or in pairs in coastal caves and crevices. Adults prefer depths of about 25 m or more and are easy to miss.

Food and feeding habits

Feeds on small crustaceans that grow on other fish species. 

Reproduction

This is an egg-laying species. The male lays eggs in a brood pouch under the tail.

Fishing

The species is of minor commercial interest.

Relationship with a person

Harmless.