Microphis brachyurus aculeatus

Scientific name: Microphis brachyurus aculeatus

Common name: N/A

Family: Syngnathidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 18 - 20 cm (7.09 - 7.87 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 12 - 18°N (214.29 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

This pipefish is well known for being a fussy eater. Bloodworms, brine shrimp should be offered but the brine shrimp needs to be fed with Infusoria or plankton to provide extra nourishment for the fish. Live bearers fry are also good food for this fish.

Origin

Microphis brachyurus aculeatus are to be found in Africa namely Senegal, Dakar, and Angola.

Sexing

Males have a ventral pouch and the females will have a more rounded belly.

Breeding

Breeding these fish needs to be done in brackish conditions and is very difficult. There should be some form of plants in the tank to make the fish feel at ease and a temperature of 24-28°C is ideal. Prime the breeding pair with live bearer fry or blood worms. The male will approach the female, arching his back to protrude the ventral pouch allowing the female to deposit her eggs there. The fry should hatch after 36-48 hours and their first feed should be very small foods like Infusoria. After a while they can move onto newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

Given the correct conditions, Microphis brachyurus aculeatus should live for 15 years in the aquarium.

Short description

Microphis brachyurus aculeatus, which are closely related to sea horses require plants in the aquarium to make them feel secure. They are a very peaceful fish but do better in a species only tank.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.