Tubemouth

Siphonognathus argyrophanes

Siphonognathus argyrophanes - Tubemouth
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Size: 40 cm

Distribution: All SA coastal and gulf waters

Habitat: Seagrass meadows

Depth: Subtidal to 10+ metres

This slender weed whiting is very similar in appearance to pipefishes. It is brownish to green in colour, with a thick dark midline stripe. As its name suggests, this species has a tube-like snout, with a distinctive filament or barbel on the end. A faster swimmer than pipefishes, it can also be distinguished by its larger size and more robust body, as well as the barbel on its snout.