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Tiger Pipefish In Nelson Bay

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Tiger Pipefish, Fillicampus tigris, can be found in the Nelson Bay Marine Park, hiding in macro algae, seagrass or over a sandy or muddy bottom. They are most commonly found in estuaries, ranging in depths  from 0-30m. While pipefish usually have an average maximum total length of 20cm, F. tigris has a max TL of 35cm!



This species of pipe fish is listed as 'Least Concern; by the IUCN, however it is endemic to Australian costal waters which places it at a higher risk of displacement. 

F. tigris is at risk from habitat destruction that can be caused through boating/anchoring, increased sea temperatures that can alter seagrass abundance & distribution, run-off from urban areas & as by catch in commercial fishing nets. 

In 2004, this species became listed as 'protected' under the NSW Management Act 1994, making it an offence to collect or harvest any member of the Syngnathidae family, including seahorses, Ghostpipefish, sea dragons, pipefish & pipe horse in NSW waters without a permit or license, with heavy penalties applicable if found doing so. 

You can help conserve this species by anchoring your vessel to already existing moorings to reduce habitat destruction & mooring scars as well as by choosing to consume seafood from local, sustainable sources. 

 

 

 

 

 

Image credited to Jayne Gillespie