About Nerophis ophidion (Linnaeus, 1758)
Common Name and Initial Appearance
Nerophis ophidion, commonly called the straightnose pipefish, has an appearance that initially resembles a worm. It has a very small head that looks like the head of a seahorse, which is a close relative of this species.
Body and Fin Structure
Its body is round in cross-section, and all of its fins are very small.
Similar Species Distinction
The only fish that is easily confused with the straightnose pipefish is the broadnosed pipefish (Syngnathus typhle); the broadnosed pipefish is more robust than the straightnose pipefish and has a hexagonal cross-section instead.
Base Coloration
The straightnose pipefish is generally green overall, with a yellowish belly. Females have pale blue markings on their head and body.
Breeding Season Coloration
Both sexes become more colourful during breeding season, when the male's snout turns yellow.
Size
On average, straightnose pipefish grow between 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) long, with a maximum recorded length of 30 cm (12 inches).
Geographical Range
This species is found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean along the coasts of Europe, with a range that extends from southern Norway to Morocco. It also lives in the Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea.
Habitat and Depth
It inhabits sandy bottoms between depths of 2 to 15 m (6 ft 7 in to 49 ft 3 in), and is a member of the local fouling community.
