Halimeda Ghostpipefish

Description:

Solenostomus halimeda can reach a length of 6.5 cm (2.6 in), and is the smallest of the ghost pipefishes. Its body is most often green, but can be red or any other color of the algae or coral in which it is hiding. This cryptic species looks very similar to the macroalga Halimeda. This uncommon species is related to pipefishes and seahorses. It can be distinguished by its large head that is about the same length as the rest of its body. The caudal fin is small and similar in form and size to the dorsal and pectoral fins.

Habitat:

Most of the time, found among Halimeda aglae, can be very difficult to find as they tend to hovers motionless among the Halimeda algae and really mimic the algae.

Notes:

These fish float nearly motionless, with their mouths facing downwards, around a background that makes them nearly impossible to see. They feed on tiny crustaceans, sucked inside through their long snouts. Unlike true pipefish, female Halimeda ghost pipefish carry their fertilised eggs between their pelvic fins, which are modified to form a brood pouch, until the eggs are ready to hatch. This Halimeda ghostpipe fish is very rare and highly sought after by underwater macro photographer!