Kulbicki’s Pipefish

This species is characterized by having principal tail ridges with a small posterior spine-like projection on each ring; pectoral fin rays 11-14; dorsal fin rays 19-22, body rings 16-17 + 31-40 (total 48-57), snout length 2.3-2.6 in head length; lateral trunk ridge ending on the 5th-9th tail ring; body with 13 broad pink bands (Ref. 75989).Description: Characterized by having variable color depending on surroundings, usually red, brown or whitish with narrow white or brown bars at intervals of every 4-5 rings; 10 caudal rays; superior and inferior trunk ridges continuous with respective tail ridges (Ref. 90102).

Male carries the eggs in a brood pouch (Ref. 205).

Dorsal soft rays (total): 19 - 22; Analsoft rays: 4

Ovoviviparous (Ref. 205). Male carries the eggs in a brood pouch (Ref. 205). Found in coastal reefs (Ref 90102).

Festucalex kulbickii, commonly known as Kulbicki's pipefish, or New Caledonian pipefish, is a species of marine fish of the family Syngnathidae. It is found from West Papua, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea to New Caledonia. It lives in coral reefs to depths of 56 metres (184 ft), where it can grow to lengths of 6.8 centimetres (2.7 in). It is expected to feed on small crustaceans, similar to other pipefish. This species is ovoviviparous, with males brooding eggs and giving birth to live young. The specific name honours Dr. Michel Kulbicki of L’Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD) in Nouméa, New Caledonia.