Reeftop Pipefish

Corythoichthys haematopterus is a species of marine fish in the family Syngnathidae. The Messmate pipefish is widespread throughout the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the Vanuatu Islands. It occasionally makes its way into the aquarium trade.

Other names: Dragonfaced Pipefish, Bloodspot Pipefish, Reef Pipefish and Yellow-streaked Pipefish.

Description

The Messmate pipefish is a small size fish and can reach a maximum size of 19.8 cm length. It is pale with dark wavy lines forming a network-like pattern, about 15 dusky pale-centred bands encircling the body and a reddish pink tail edged in white. Males develop three to five speckles alternated by lateral stripes of brilliant light blue and orange on the underside of the thorax.

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

The messmate pipefish exhibits biofluorescence, that is, when illuminated by blue or ultraviolet light, it re-emits it as yellow, and appears differently than under white light illumination. Biofluorescence may assist in intraspecific communication and camouflage.

Distirbition

Indo-Pacific: East Africa to Vanuatu, north to southern Japan southward to Australia.

Habitat and biology

Adults inhabit shallow protected areas of rubble and sand, usually semi-silty zones. Occur more commonly at depths between 0 and 3 m. Ovoviviparous. Monogamous mating is observed as both obligate and genetic. Males carry the eggs in a brood pouch which is found under the tail. Males may be brooding at 9.0 cm SL. Adults are usually seen in pairs or in small groups, and breeding pairs form strong life-long attachments.