---
title: Shortnose Pipefish (Micrognathus andersonii)
scientific_name: Micrognathus andersonii
common_name: Shortnose Pipefish
taxon: Pipefishes
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-10-30T10:43:28.987Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Shortnose Pipefish, Micrognathus andersonii, Pipefishes, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/pipefishes/shortnose-pipefish
---

# Shortnose Pipefish (*Micrognathus andersonii*)

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


The Shortnose Pipefish, scientifically classified as Micrognathus andersonii, derives its name from the Greek words "mikros," meaning small, and "gnathos," meaning jaw. This species exhibits a coloration that ranges from pale to dark brown, often displaying 2-3 distinctive blotches on the sides of its trunk.

Habitat and Range: The Shortnose Pipefish is typically associated with reef environments, inhabiting depths ranging from 1 to 10 meters. The species reaches a maximum length of 8.5 centimeters. Notably, male Shortnose Pipefish are responsible for carrying eggs in a specialized brood pouch.

Geographic Distribution: This species is found within the Indo-Pacific region, extending from East Africa and the Red Sea to Samoa. Its distribution includes northern areas up to southern Japan and southern regions down to Tonga. Additionally, it is present in Belau, the eastern Caroline Islands, and the Mariana Islands in Micronesia.

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