The Banded Pipefish, Ringed Pipefish, scientifically known as Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus, is a fascinating marine fish species. This slender, eel-like fish is easily recognizable due to its distinctive banding pattern, adding to its allure.
Description & Characteristics
The Banded Pipefish, Ringed Pipefish (Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus) is a relatively small fish, with a maximum recorded size of 19.0 cm. The body is elongated and slender, resembling a pipe, hence the name. The fish has a distinct banding pattern, characterized by alternating light and dark bands running along its body. This striking coloration serves as camouflage, helping it blend in with its surroundings.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Banded Pipefish, Ringed Pipefish (Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus) is primarily found in coastal waters, with a depth range of 5.0 to 56.0 meters. Its habitat includes a variety of marine zones, including the neritic zone and the oceanic zone. This species is commonly observed in seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and rocky shores.
Taxonomy
The Banded Pipefish, Ringed Pipefish (Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus) belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Syngnathiformes, and Family: Syngnathidae. The Syngnathiformes order encompasses a diverse group of fishes including seahorses, pipefishes, and seadragons. The Syngnathidae family, commonly known as pipefishes and seahorses, is characterized by their elongated bodies, bony plates, and specialized mouth structures.
Feeding
The Banded Pipefish, Ringed Pipefish (Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus) is a carnivore, feeding primarily on small crustaceans. Its diet includes a variety of zooplankton, such as amphipods, copepods, and mysids. Other food items observed in their diet include brine shrimp nauplii, brine shrimps, Daphnia salina, and even lobster eggs. Their elongated snout and small mouth are adapted for catching and consuming these tiny prey items.
Image References