Roughsnout ghost pipefish (Solenostomus paegnius)

Latin name

Solenostomus paegnius

Other names

Solenostomus paegnius

Identification

This species usually has protruding filamentous projections along the ventral surface of the snout, and may also have shorter projections along the dorsal surface. In some individuals, "hairy" filamentous projections cover the head, body, and fins. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 5; Dorsal soft rays (total): 18-21; Anal soft rays: 18-21. 

Fish colouring

Body with various shades of brown, red and green, often with white speckles.

Distribution

Inhabit the Indo-Pacific region, occurring from the Red Sea eastward to Japan and Australia. 

Habitat

A marine tropical species. Live on algae-covered or rocky reefs and sandy seabeds, often at depths of less than 10 meters (33 feet). Have a primarily pelagic lifestyle.

Size

Up to 17 centimeters (6.69 inches) long.

Behavior

Able to blend in with the bottom or mimic a branch of algae when needed.

Food and feeding habits

They eat mostly zooplankton.

Reproduction

As they multiply, they settle on the substrate.