The Cleaner Pipefish, Janss Pipefish, Janss’s Pipefish, scientifically known as Doryrhamphus janssi, is a captivating species of marine fish belonging to the family Syngnathidae. This pipefish is a slender, elongated fish that can reach a maximum size of 14.0 cm. It is characterized by its distinct coloration and intricate patterns, making it a visually striking inhabitant of the marine environment.
Description and Characteristics
Doryrhamphus janssi is a relatively small fish, typically measuring up to 14.0 cm in length. Its elongated, tubular body is a characteristic feature of the pipefish family. The body is covered in bony plates, giving it a rigid and somewhat inflexible appearance. The snout is long and thin, resembling a pipe, hence the name “pipefish.” Its coloration can vary depending on the individual and its environment, but it typically exhibits a combination of brown, yellow, and black hues, often with intricate patterns and markings.
Habitat and Occurrence
Doryrhamphus janssi is primarily found in shallow coastal waters, with a depth range of 0.0 – 35.0 meters. This species is commonly observed in rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove habitats. Its distribution includes various marine zones, including the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific.
Taxonomy
Doryrhamphus janssi belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Syngnathiformes, and Family: Syngnathidae. This classification places it within the broader group of ray-finned fishes, specifically those belonging to the order Syngnathiformes, which also includes seahorses and sea dragons.
Feeding
Doryrhamphus janssi is a carnivore, relying primarily on a diet of small crustaceans and invertebrates. This includes a variety of food sources such as Amphipods, Bosmiden, Brine Shrimp Nauplii, Brine Shrimps, Copepods, Cyclops, Daphnia salina, Lobster eggs, Mysis, and Zooplankton. The pipefish uses its long snout to suction up these small prey items, exhibiting a unique feeding behavior.
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