Pipehorse

Amphelikturus dendriticus

The pipehorse is a small, elusive species of pygmy pipehorse found in the western Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its excellent camouflage, making it a challenge to spot during dives. This species can reach a length of up to 7.5 centimeters, with an elongated body typical of the syngnathidae family. Its cryptic nature helps it blend seamlessly into its surroundings, often going unnoticed by divers and predators alike. Pipehorses inhabit marine environments, typically found at depths ranging from 1 to 16 meters. They are distributed from New Brunswick, Canada, and Bermuda down to Brazil. This species is demersal, meaning it lives and feeds on or near the bottom of the sea. Reproduction in pipehorses involves the male carrying the eggs in a brood pouch located under his tail, a characteristic feature of the syngnathidae family. The IUCN Red List categorizes this species as Least Concern. Divers encountering this species may find it on rubble bottoms, where its camouflaged appearance allows it to remain hidden.