Blue Striped Pipefish: The Elongate Reef Specialist
The Blue Striped Pipefish (Doryrhamphus dactyliophorus) is a highly distinctive and elegant member of the Syngnathidae family, which includes seahorses. This species is better known by the trade names Banded Pipefish or Ringed Pipefish due to its dramatic coloration: a long, slender body with striking alternating red/black and white/yellow bands, and a highly visible, fan-like red caudal (tail) fin. It is a specialist fish requiring dedicated care and is recommended for expert aquarists only.
Hailing from the Indo-Pacific, this fish is a slow-moving, constant forager that lives among the rocks, caves, and crevices of shallow reef slopes and lagoons. Its natural hunting behavior—plucking tiny live zooplankton from the water—makes it a fascinating addition to a well-maintained reef aquarium.
| Species | Doryrhamphus dactyliophorus |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Banded Pipefish, Ringed Pipefish |
| Habitat | Indo-Pacific shallow reef slopes and lagoons |
| Behavior | Slow-moving, forages for live zooplankton |
| Water Conditions | Warm, stable, salinity 32–34 ppt, pH 8.1–8.4 |
FAQ
What is the ideal water temperature for Blue Striped Pipefish?
The ideal water temperature ranges between 24°C and 27°C (75°F to 80°F).
How often should I feed a Blue Striped Pipefish?
Feed small amounts of live zooplankton or brine shrimp 2–3 times per week.
Is the Blue Striped Pipefish suitable for beginners?
Please contact customer service
Nicola Arnold –
The Blue Striped Pipefish is a stunning addition to my reef tank. Its vibrant coloration and unique movement stand out. I’ve had it for three months and it’s very active during feeding times. Requires a stable environment, but worth the effort for the visual appeal.
Matt Mills –
Beautiful fish with a very distinct appearance. I noticed it hides in crevices during the day and comes out at night. Feeding is simple with live copepods. Needs a well-established tank with plenty of hiding spots.
Michelle Lyman –
After researching extensively, I finally acquired this pipefish. It’s more active than I expected and shows interest in the water flow. The color patterns are vivid and it blends well with the reef background. A true eye-catcher.