dragonface pipefish

[ck1]

We were at IMAC this weekend and saw some dragonface pipefish at both the conference and at some of the LFS stores in Chicago.
We are currently cycling a 12 gallon nano tank- an Eclipse 12. We have been debating our stock list while it has been cycling. After seeing these fish we are very interested in learning more about them.
Could they be housed in a 12 gallon Eclipse that is set up with their needs solely mind? If so, how many? Right now it has stock lighting, with Aragonite sandbed and a reasonable amount of liverock (not overloaded). Any recommendations on equipment, etc??
I would really love some more information on these fish- as I plan to thoroughly research before purchasing. And IF we do purchase- any recommended sites if I can not find them local (have not seen them local yet).
Any links or info is greatly appreciated.

Julie

 

[ck1]

Would also like to mention that if it is suitable to start them off in a 12 gallon, we do have larger tanks as they get bigger. We have a 46 bowfront that is not set up right now. But could be used for them in the future.
So we are willing to switch tanks as they grow.

Julie

 

[ck1]

I have still been searching for info- and must not be hitting the right sites. I am not finding a lot about tank set up, and care of pipefish, and what they specifically need for best results.

About all I have found out is they would most likely be harassed in our 100gallon reef- so they should have their own tank. But have not found any leads on what that should be like.

Is there not alot of info out on this, like the other marine fishes? Does everyone just wing it and hope for the best????

Julie

 

[seamonkey2]

hey ck1, dragon pipes, do fairly well in big reefs, I got a mated pair, in my 240ga, and they love it, they hug the rocks and sand, no other tankmates bother them, so...good luck

Jose

 

[ck1]

What kind of fish do you have in with them? I am worried that my fairy wrasses and clowns might be too aggressive with them.
Julie

 

[Avast Marine]

I saw one of these at lfs today and am considering it for the sole fish in my fuge so I will be following this to see what you can dig up and will post what I find.

 

[LisaD]

IME they need a decent pod population, much like a mandarin, and should have a large tank. Unless you can 1) get them to eat frozen cyclopeez or mysis reliably, or 2) provide live food several times daily from a productive culture outside the tank.

When you were at IMAC, did you talk to the owner of the pipes? She is an admin on a popular seahorse site, and is local to the Chicago area. She brought her own fish to exhibit at the meeting. She also brought her captive bred gulf pipes, Syngnathus scovelli. If you'd like to PM me, I can give you her contact information.

 

[seamonkey2]

there are 4 wrasses, a bunch of angels, long nose hawfish, mated pair of clowns, etc, I keep everybody well feed, feed BB every day in addition to regular food, soooo.....

yes well stablish reef with lots of pods are a must

good luck

Jose

 

[ck1]

LisaD-
I Pm'd you. Unfortunatly I did not get a chance to talk to anyone there about the pipefish.
Thanks-
Julie

 

[nickyblase]

check out syngnathid.org - good info on them there