Cylindrical body tapers down to a small rounded tail. Tubular snout thin and elongate; dark stripe from snout to pectoral fin. Small diamond chain-like pattern found along lower sides of body. Body may appear dark gray or brown/olive green along the back and fades to white or silver near belly.
Average Maximum Size:
38 cm (15 in)
Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:
Chain Pipefish can be distinguished from Northern Pipefish by a chainlike diamond pattern that runs along the lower portion of their bodies.
Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:
Range:
New Jersey to Gulf of Mexico
Habitat:
Coastal salt and brackish waters with soft sandy and muddy bottom; also in estuaries around rocks, reefs, and submerged vegetation. Can also be found offshore
