There's More to Pipes Than Just PVC

[bdale02m]

I was re-reading some of your past columns and I came across your pipefish column. I had a couple of questions about the statements that you made regarding feeding. You suggested that with a refuge for their prey items that they may not need supplemental feeding. What size tank to pipefish ratio are you suggesting would be effective? I have read the articles online at pipefish.org and syngnathid.org and they assert that they need to be fed in addition to what they capture in the tank. Is that just because the are keeping higher pipefish densities in tanks? I f supplemental feedings are necessary, do you know of any effective means for multiple daily feedings if you aren't home all day? I have some ideas for a system, but was curious if you knew of any tested designs for either live or frozen foods. Finally, are you aware of any captive breeding programs for pipes? I really enjoy your column and thank in advance for the time taken to answer this thread.
Sincerely,
Barry Dale

 

[Sloeber]

What size tank to pipefish ratio are you suggesting would be effective?

i think it is nearly impossible to give you a size requirement as so many variables can come into play. suffice it to say that larger is better, and dense groths of macro algae are valuable in this regard.

Is that just because the are keeping higher pipefish densities in tanks?

in high densities i think it would be impossible to count on the aquarium to supply enough food. perhaps it would be sufficient for weekend getaways, but extended periods probably is not a good idea.

I f supplemental feedings are necessary, do you know of any effective means for multiple daily feedings if you aren't home all day?

this is something i do not have experience with. in most cases, if the system has a seperate refugium that is producing well, i do not think it would be a requirement to feed several times per day. a single feeding would probably suffice (it did for me).

Finally, are you aware of any captive breeding programs for pipes?

no i am not.

my last pair carried eggs regularly, but i was not setup to raise the fry. i'm moving shortly, and plan to incorporate a pipefish tank once again. this time, i may have the opportunity to raise the fry.

thanks for your questions. if i could answer anythign further, LMK.