Microphis argulus (Peters, 1855)
Flat-nosed pipepfish
Microphis argulus
photo by Keith, P.

Family:  Syngnathidae (Pipefishes and seahorses), subfamily: Nerophinae
Max. size:  15 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; freshwater; brackish; marine; depth range - 32 m
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Mauritius and the Comoros. Pacific Ocean: Indonesia to the Marquesan Islands, north to New Guinea, south to the Society Islands.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal soft rays (total): 49-49; Anal soft rays: 3-3. Body rings: Trunk 16 to 17; tail 36 to 39.
Biology:  Occurs in coastal rivers, streams, and estuaries (Ref. 4127). Ovoviviparous (Ref. 205). The male carries the eggs in a brood pouch which is found under the tail (Ref. 205). Males may be brooding at 9.7 cm SL (Ref. 5316).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 22 March 2016 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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