Doryrhamphus janssi – Pipefish are close relatives of the seahorse. Janss’ pipefish are among the most beautiful syngnathids with their bright blue and orange coloration. They are one of the “flagtail” pipefish and have relatively large caudal fins used for sailing around the tank in the current.

Wild caught pipefish are extremely difficult to keep because they typically only eat live foods. These captive bred pipefish fromDavid Sowash at Reef Life Creations are raised on prepared foods like frozen baby brine, chopped mysis, and PE Calanus, making them easier to keep. They’re quite hardy when provided with the proper environment and care. Pipefish should be fed 3 – 5 x a day.

Compatibility

Seahorse specific tanks are perfect environments for pipefish. Unlike seahorses, Janss’ pipefish may also be suitable in a reef-style tank with proper tank mates. Many Doryrhamphus species like Janss’ are known to be active cleaners in the wild, picking tiny parasitic crustaceans from other fishes.

Aggressive fish or fish large enough to eat small pipefish are not suitable tankmates.Beware larger crabs and hermit crabs or any animals that could pinch or harm them physically. Stinging anemones and any stinging corals like Euphyllia are risky tank mates for pipefish. Corals with large mouths can consume pipefish. We recommend introducing new fish with anacclimation box.

Pipefish are very different from other aquarium fish, and their care and requirements are also unique to them. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions at [email protected]