While we make every effort to ensure that our online stock levels are accurate and up to date, some products—particularly those that are perishable or subject to daily changes—may vary in availability. This includes livestock, fish, corals, and both fresh and frozen foods. Due to the nature of these items and their dependence on factors such as shipment schedules, health status, and in-store demand, availability can change rapidly and may not always be reflected in real time on our website.
To avoid disappointment, we strongly encourage customers to confirm the availability of these products before placing an order or visiting In-Store. You can do this easily by using the "Ask a Question" tab on the product page or by calling us directly on 0460 961 696 .
Our friendly team will be happy to assist and provide the most up-to-date information on current stock.
The Short Snout Freshwater Pipefish is a unique and fascinating species that adds something truly different to a specialised freshwater setup. With their slender, elongated bodies and gentle, gliding movements, these pipefish resemble tiny seahorses and are closely related to them. Native to slow-moving rivers and floodplain habitats in Southeast Asia, they are a peaceful and delicate species that requires careful attention and the right environment to thrive.
Product Details
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Species: Doryichthys martensii
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Common Names: Short Snout Pipefish, Freshwater Pipefish
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Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
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Light Requirements: Low to moderate
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Diet: Carnivorous – Live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms
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Maximum Size: Up to 15 cm
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Temperament: Peaceful, shy
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Care Level: Advanced
Aquarium Setup
Short Snout Pipefish need a calm, well-planted aquarium with gentle water flow and excellent water quality. Tall plants, mosses, and fine-leaved aquatic vegetation provide crucial cover and allow the pipefish to anchor and hunt comfortably. A sponge filter or gentle filtration system is preferred to avoid stressing them with strong currents.
They do best in species-only or very carefully chosen peaceful community tanks. Due to their shy nature and specialised feeding needs, they should not be housed with fast-moving or aggressive feeders.
A long, low-profile tank is ideal, allowing for horizontal swimming space and easy foraging.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 22°C – 27°C
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pH: 6.5 – 7.5
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Hardness: 3 – 10 dGH
Growth and Maintenance
Short Snout Pipefish are sensitive to water quality and do best in stable, mature aquariums. They are best suited to experienced aquarists familiar with maintaining live food cultures, as they rarely accept frozen or prepared foods.
Frequent small water changes and pristine conditions are essential. These pipefish can breed in captivity under the right conditions, with males carrying eggs in a brood pouch—much like seahorses.
Avoid boisterous tank mates, as stress and competition for food can severely impact their health.
Care Tips
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Provide plenty of plant cover and gentle water flow
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Keep in small groups or pairs
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Feed live, small-sized prey items multiple times a day
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Avoid strong filtration and sudden water parameter changes
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Ideal for a species-only setup or with slow-moving, non-aggressive tank mates
Compatibility
Due to their specific needs, Short Snout Pipefish should only be kept with very peaceful species such as:
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Small rasboras (e.g., Lambchop Rasboras)
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Dwarf shrimp (with caution)
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Otocinclus
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Sparkling gouramis (if very docile)
Avoid any fish that are fast feeders or may outcompete them for food.
Availability
Short Snout Freshwater Pipefish (Doryichthys martensii) are a rare and specialist offering at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Reach out to check current availability and suitability for your aquarium—perfect for experienced aquarists seeking a truly unique species.
Disclaimer: Due to natural variation and the age of fish, your Short Snout Pipefish may not look identical to the image provided.