---
title: Samoan Pipefish (Halicampus mataafae)
scientific_name: Halicampus mataafae
common_name: Samoan Pipefish
taxon: Pipefishes
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-10-30T10:15:15.313Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Samoan Pipefish, Halicampus mataafae, Pipefishes, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/pipefishes/samoan-pipefish
---

# Samoan Pipefish (*Halicampus mataafae*)

**Taxon:** Pipefishes (*Syngnathinae*)  
**Conservation Status:** LC - Least Concern  


The Samoan pipefish, scientifically known as Halicampus mataafae, is a marine species within the Syngnathidae family. This species is prevalent throughout the Indo-Pacific region, extending from the Red Sea to locales such as Sodwana Bay, Taiwan, the Marshall Islands, and Samoa. It typically resides in tidepools and coral and rocky reefs, inhabiting depths of up to 15 meters (49 feet).

Characterized by solitary behavior and cryptic habits, the Samoan pipefish is infrequently observed in its natural habitat. Its diet presumably consists of small crustaceans, and it can attain lengths of up to 14 centimeters (5.5 inches).

The species exhibits ovoviviparity, where males possess brood pouches to carry fertilized eggs; these pouches have folds that do not reach the center, ultimately resulting in the live birth of the young.

The specific epithet of Halicampus mataafae is a tribute to Mataafa, a former king of Samoa. It is recognized as a protected marine species under the Australian Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act of 1999.

Halicampus mataafae can be distinguished by its reddish-brown coloration and the presence of small pale spots along its trunk and tail.

---

*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/pipefishes/samoan-pipefish)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*