Multibanded Pipefish

The Multibanded Pipefish is an elegant Indian Ocean species featuring a distinctive pattern of numerous narrow red or reddish-brown bands encircling a white to cream-colored body. The dense, regular banding pattern gives it a strikingly graphic appearance, and its bright red flag-like caudal fin provides a vivid accent at the tail. Reaching approximately 7 inches in length, it is one of the larger commonly kept aquarium pipefish and belongs to the Dunckerocampus genus, which contains some of the hardiest and most aquarium-adaptable pipefish species.

In the wild, Dunckerocampus multiannulatus inhabits reef caves, crevices, and overhangs throughout the Indian Ocean, from the coast of East Africa and Madagascar to the Maldives and Sri Lanka. It is a cryptic species that spends much of its time in the shadows of reef structure, emerging to feed on tiny crustaceans that drift past its territory. Pairs are common and maintain strong bonds, often seen hovering together in cave entrances or along protected reef walls.

The Multibanded Pipefish is considered one of the more adaptable aquarium pipefish, as Dunckerocampus species tend to accept frozen foods more readily than many other syngnathid genera. While it still requires a specialized diet of small crustaceans and cannot compete with fast-moving fish, it is a reasonable choice for dedicated hobbyists willing to provide frequent feedings of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and live copepods. A productive refugium greatly enhances long-term success. Keep in pairs in a calm environment with only the most peaceful tankmates.