Dragonface Pipefish (Corythoichthys Haematopterus)

Species Name : Corythoichthys Haematopterus 

Care Level : Expert Only

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Black, Pink, White, Yellow

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : Yes

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 7"

Origin : Indo-Pacific

Family : Syngnathidae

Minimum Tank Size : 50 gallons

The Dragonface Pipefish (Corythoichthys Haematopterus) is also called the Reeftop Pipefish, Messmate Pipefish and Banded Messmate Pipefish.

This fish has a long, slender body with a tiny, tubular mouth and a small pink tail. The body is cream colored with highly variable black, pink, and yellow markings. Each individual has a unique pattern, and some can be very striking and colorful. The Dragonface Pipefish can also use its tail to loosely anchor itself to corals or rocks.

This social species is best kept in mated pairs or groups of its own kind in an aquarium that is 50 gallons or larger. The Dragonface Pipefish is a poor swimmer and prefers to travel by sliding its body over substrate and live rock similar to the way a snake moves.

It may be kept with small, shy fish such as small gobies, seahorses, dragonets, and firefish. Aggressive, territorial, or fast-moving fish do not make good companions. The Dragonface Pipefish is slightly more tolerant of corals and larger fish, but can be harmed by anemones and corals with strong stinging tentacles or corals that are large enough to consume it, such as brain corals. The Dragonface Pipefish can also be harmed by invertebrates such as crabs, large shrimp, and large clams, but will not harm ornamental shrimp or invertebrates.

Pipefish are notoriously finicky eaters, which is perhaps the biggest reason they are labeled as expert-only saltwater fish. They prefer to eat live foods: copepods (including red bugs), mysis shrimp, brine shrimp and are also likely to enjoy any planktonic larvae you’re lucky enough to have in your tank from your ornamental shrimp or clean up crew.

This species of pipefish has been found to consume the dreaded micro-amphipod commonly referred to as "Red Bugs" that have now become prevalent in reef aquariums that contain Acropora coral. Red Bug infestations on Acropora corals have been shown to inhibit polyp extension and growth, while causing shifts or loss in coloration. After the pipefish is accustomed to the surroundings and tankmates in the reef aquarium, it will quickly seek out these red bugs as a food source.

Size: Small: 1" to 3"; Medium: 3" to 4" Large 4" to 5"