Pipefish – Alligator

Alligator Pipefish Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size:  60 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 27.5cm (11″)

Diet: Carnivore (Eats pods)

Temperament: Peaceful

Lifespan: Up to 7 years

Scientific Name: Syngnathoides Biaculeatus

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

Approx. Purchase Size: 4-6 inches

The alligator pipefish, scientific name Syngnathoides Biaculeatus is a peaceful fish. Their minimum tank size is 60 gallons. Alligator pipefish can grow up to 11” and can live up to 7 years. This is one of the larger pipefish species found in the aquarium hobby. Alligator pipefish are carnivores, they will eat pods found in the tank. If there are no pods present in the tank they can be bought and added to the tank. Alligator pipefish can be kept alone but are best kept in pairs or groups. Alligator pipefish are often seen in mated couples. Males are normally longer and darker in color while the females are a brighter green and smaller. Alligator pipefish are reef safe, they will not bother corals or invertebrates. They will find a crevice in the rocks to sleep in.  Alligator pipefish will be seen swimming through the tank or seen floating in the water, they do not have strong fins or a strong swimming capability so keeping them in a fish tank with lower flow settings and peaceful tank mates is recommended. Alligator pipefish can be mixed with other pipefish as long as there is enough food. Pipefish are delicate and can be harmed by large fast moving fish, anemones or stinging tentacles from corals. They can also be harmed from certain invertebrates such as crabs. Alligator pipefish are also referred to as the green pipefish.