Messmate pipefish (Corythoichthys haematopterus)

Latin name

Corythoichthys haematopterus

Other name

Dragonfaced pipefish, bloodspot pipefish, reef pipefish, reeftop pipefish and yellow-streaked pipefish.

Identification

Messmate pipefish have a relatively short snout and usually many wrinkles on their cheeks. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 23 - 33; Anal soft rays: 4. 

Fish colouring

The Messmate Pipefish has thin lines on the head and a series of spots on the back and along the body. The tail fin is predominantly pink.

Distribution

Widespread in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, from the east coast of Africa to the islands of Vanuatu. 

Habitat

A tropical marine species associated with reefs. It inhabits depths from 0 to 21 m. Adults live in shallow sheltered areas of gravel and sand, usually in semi-silty areas, singly, in pairs or in small groups.

Size

This species can reach a length of 19.8 centimetres. 

Behavior

Exhibits biofluorescence, i.e. it emits yellow light when illuminated with blue or ultraviolet light and looks different when illuminated with white light. Biofluorescence can aid intraspecific communication and camouflage.

Food and feeding habits

In natural conditions, the Messmate pipefish feeds on zooplankton and small zoobenthos.

Reproduction

Egg-laying. Males lay eggs in a brood pouch under the tail. Males can nest as high as 9.0 cm above sea level. Adults almost always nest in pairs. 

Fishing

Messmate pipefish is not commercially important in fisheries.

Relationship with a person

Occasionally this fish finds its way into the aquarium trade.