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.