|
Microphis argulus (Peters, 1855) Flat-nosed pipepfish |
|
|
photo by
Keith, P. |
| Family: | Syngnathidae (Pipefishes and seahorses), subfamily: Nerophinae | |||
| Max. size: | 15 cm SL (male/unsexed) | |||
| Environment: | demersal; freshwater; brackish; marine; depth range - 32 m | |||
| Distribution: | Western Indian Ocean: Mauritius and the Comoros. Pacific Ocean: Indonesia to the Marquesan Islands, north to New Guinea, south to the Society Islands. | |||
| Diagnosis: | Dorsal soft rays (total): 49-49; Anal soft rays: 3-3. Body rings: Trunk 16 to 17; tail 36 to 39. | |||
| Biology: | Occurs in coastal rivers, streams, and estuaries (Ref. 4127). Ovoviviparous (Ref. 205). The male carries the eggs in a brood pouch which is found under the tail (Ref. 205). Males may be brooding at 9.7 cm SL (Ref. 5316). | |||
| IUCN Red List Status: | Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 22 March 2016 Ref. (130435) | |||
| Threat to humans: | harmless | |||