Freshwater Pipefish

Pipefish are straight-bodied seahorse relatives, close enough that males of both groups carry developing eggs in a dedicated brood pouch rather than leaving the job entirely to females — a genuine role reversal in the parenting department. Like seahorses, pipefish also lack a true stomach altogether, running food through a straight digestive tract instead, which is exactly why they need small live foods offered frequently rather than one or two larger meals a day.

Care level: Difficult · Temperament: Peaceful · Max size: ~6" · Min tank: 20 gal, low flow · Diet: Carnivore, live/frozen baby brine shrimp, frequent feedings