Ornate Ghost Pipefish

Post-pelagic are almost fully transparent and more slender compared to those established in the benthic phase. Variable in color from black to red and yellow, usually in a mix of bands and spots (Ref. 48635). Total body number of plates 31-35. Caudal fin truncate, rounded or lanceolate. Caudal fins of females modified into brood pouch (Ref. 9829).Description: Characterized by body depth 13.1-23.4 % SL; least snout depth 2.8-5.6 % SL; depth of caudal peduncle 2.4-5.3 % SL; length of caudal peduncle 9.1-20.2 % SL; length of caudal fin 30.6-41.8 % SL; snout with short skin filaments; body and fins with jagged edges giving spiky appearance (Ref. 90102).

Pelvic fins of females are modified as brood pouch for the reception of the eggs (Ref. 205).

Dorsal spines (total): 5; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17 - 21; Analspines: 0; Analsoft rays: 17 - 21; Vertebrae: 32 - 33

Found on the continental shelf. Benthic species (Ref. 75154). Usually settles along reef edges in current-prone areas (Ref. 48635). Uncommon species found solitary or paired, among branches of gorgonians, floating weeds, or crinoids (Ref. 9710, 75154). Feeds mostly on mysids but also target small benthic shrimps (Ref. 48635).

Adults usually settle along reef edges in current-prone areas (Ref. 48635). Uncommon species found solitary or paired, among branches of gorgonians, floating weeds, or crinoids (Ref. 9710). They feed mostly on mysids but also target small benthic shrimps (Ref. 48635). Females carry the eggs in their pelvic fins that are modified to form a brood pouch (Ref. 205).

fisheries: of no interest; aquarium: public aquariums