Corythoichthys intestinalis

Datasheet

General Description

The Scribbled pipefish (Corythoichthys intestinalis), belonging to the Syngnathidae family, is a captivating species known for its unique appearance. These pipefish have a maximum size of 16.0cm and are commonly found in the Western Central Pacific region, ranging from Borneo to Samoa, and north to the Marshall and Mariana Islands, as well as south to Rowley Shoals and New Caledonia.

Aquarium Suitability

Pipefishes like the Scribbled pipefish are intriguing but require careful consideration before introduction into an aquarium due to their specific needs. They do best in a dedicated tank set up, where they can latch onto structures like kelp or macroalgae with their tails. It is essential to avoid corals and anemones that may harm them. These species prefer gentle water currents, as they are not strong swimmers. Seahorses and pipefish can coexist in tanks of at least 40 liters, allowing for easier feeding control. It is crucial to avoid aggressive tankmates that may harm or outcompete them for food.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

The Scribbled pipefish is rated as having average hardiness. Despite not being overly sensitive to water quality, these fish necessitate proper aquarium maintenance for their well-being. Regular feeding with enriched frozen foods or live food like Artemia is recommended to ensure their nutritional needs are met. These fish have a relatively short lifespan, typically living around 2-3 years in captivity.

Reef Suitability

When it comes to reef compatibility, the Scribbled pipefish is considered reef-safe, making them a suitable addition to reef aquariums without posing a threat to the coral or other invertebrates.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for Scribbled pipefish involves creating a habitat with structures for them to grasp onto, like kelp or macroalgae. Care should be taken to ensure a gentle water flow, suitable tank mates, and a well-maintained filtration system that can handle frequent feedings with frozen food.

Behaviour

Scribbled pipefish are known to be peaceful in temperament, making them suitable for community tanks as long as aggressive tankmates are avoided. They often thrive when kept as a pair or in small groups within a suitable environment.

Feeding and Diet

Their diet consists of small crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and Artemia, along with zooplankton like Cyclops and pods. Enriching their food with omega-3 and vitamin supplements is crucial for their overall health.

Habitat and Distribution

These pipefish are typically found in the East Indian Ocean, around Australia, Indonesia, and throughout the Central and West Pacific regions. Their natural habitat includes regions rich in kelp forests and macroalgae, providing them with plenty of opportunities to anchor themselves while hunting for food. Captive breeding of Scribbled pipefish is achievable, which can be beneficial for aquarium enthusiasts seeking more sustainable options for these captivating species.