(Gloskjæret - Vestfold / 5 meters / 9.25.2004)

Phylum: Chordata

Superclass: Gnathostomata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Syngnathiformes

Family: Syngnathidae

Scientific name: Entelurus aequorus

 

Norwegian: stor havnål

Distribution: The snake pipefish is often encountered just below the tidal zone, hiding among seaweed. It is common as far north as Trøndelag.

Characteristics: In contrast to many other pipefishes, it is incapable of changing color. The light brown, almost orange color and the white vertical stripes on its body is typical. The rudimentary tail fin contributes to its poor swimming capabilities. The dorsal fin is largely in front of the ventral fin. The length body length of the male and female may reach 40 and 60 cm respectively.

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