Schultz's Pipefish

Corythoichthys schultzi, commonly known as Schultz's pipefish, is a member of the Syngnathidae family. The genus name, Corythoichthys, is derived from the Greek words coris meaning "helmet" and ichthus meaning "fish." The specific name schultzi is a tribute to Leonard Peter Schultz, an esteemed American ichthyologist associated with the Smithsonian Institution in Washington.

Males of the Corythoichthys schultzi species can attain a maximum length of up to 16 centimeters (6.3 inches). The species features a cylindrical and highly elongated body. Notably, Schultz's pipefish exhibits cryptic coloration, which serves as effective camouflage against both predators and prey. The primary body coloration is whitish, complemented by small black, brown, and reddish markings, alongside yellowish rings. Distinctive features include protruding eyes and a long, slightly compressed snout narrower than the body. While a caudal fin is present, it is relatively small in size. Adults may form small aggregations. Being ovoviviparous, the male carries eggs in a brood pouch located under the tail, where young pipefishes develop.

This species is distributed extensively across the 🌊 Indo-Pacific Oceans, ranging from the 🌊 Red Sea and East Africa to 🇹🇴 Tonga, encompassing regions such as 🇫🇲 Micronesia, northern 🇦🇺 Australia, and 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (🇫🇷 Overseas France).

Corythoichthys schultzi is a benthic species associated primarily with coral reefs, commonly found in lagoon and seaward reef environments at depths of 2 to 30 meters (6.6 to 98.4 feet). In open environments, adults are frequently observed in pairs or small groups, seeking secure locations to rest during nighttime.