Messmate pipefish

Messmate pipefish

Corythoichthys haematopterus

Least Concern

Image generated by artificial intelligence

DESCRIPTION

Males brood the eggs in a pouch under the tail and form long-term monogamous bonds, even performing ritualized daily “greeting” displays with their partner. Under blue or ultraviolet light, this species biofluoresces a vivid yellow, with fins showing especially strong red fluorescence likely used for signaling.

Max Length 19.8 cm
Max Weight 8 g
Lifespan 2 - 5 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 21 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Unknown
Social Behavior In pairs

Destinations to spot Messmate pipefish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Messmate pipefish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Messmate pipefish

Where can you see the Messmate pipefish?

The Messmate pipefish can be seen at 5 dive destinations in Philippines, Maldives, and Indonesia. The best spots include Anilao (Philippines), Gili Islands (Indonesia), Malapascua (Philippines), South Ari Atoll (Maldives), and South Malé Atoll (Maldives).

What is the best time to see the Messmate pipefish?

The Messmate pipefish is most often seen at Anilao from April to September.

Can you see the Messmate pipefish all year round?

Yes. At Gili Islands, the Messmate pipefish is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Messmate pipefish in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Messmate pipefish at Anilao and Malapascua.

Where can you see the Messmate pipefish in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Messmate pipefish at South Ari Atoll and South Malé Atoll.

Where can you see the Messmate pipefish in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Messmate pipefish at Gili Islands.

How big does the Messmate pipefish get?

The Messmate pipefish can reach up to 19.8 cm in length and 8 g in weight.

What habitat does the Messmate pipefish live in?

The Messmate pipefish is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Messmate pipefish live?

The Messmate pipefish lives from the surface down to 21 m.

What does the Messmate pipefish eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

How long does the Messmate pipefish live?

The Messmate pipefish lives 2 to 5 years.

What is the conservation status of the Messmate pipefish?

The Messmate pipefish is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Messmate pipefish. Spotted something that looks off?

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