Solenostomus cyanopterus
Encounter Rate
Spotting Difficulty
Best Season
Year-round
Depth Range
2-25 meters
The robust ghost pipefish is the largest and most commonly encountered species of ghost pipefish in Komodo, yet it remains one of the most challenging animals to spot due to its extraordinary camouflage. Reaching up to 17 centimetres in length, this relative of seahorses and true pipefish drifts head-down among seagrass, algae, and debris, its greenish-brown body and ragged fin edges perfectly mimicking a piece of drifting leaf or seagrass blade. In Komodo, robust ghost pipefish are found at sheltered sites with seagrass beds, rubble fields, and areas with floating debris. They hover near the bottom in a characteristic head-down posture, gently swaying with the surge. Like the ornate ghost pipefish, it is the female that carries the eggs in a modified brood pouch formed by her fused pelvic fins. They are typically found in pairs, with the larger female drifting alongside the smaller male. Despite being more common than other ghost pipefish species, finding one still requires sharp eyes and a knowledgeable guide — or considerable luck. Each sighting is valued, as individual fish may remain in an area for only a few days before vanishing.
Average Size
10-14cm
Size Range
5-17cm
Maximum Size
17cm
Feeds on tiny mysid shrimp and other small crustaceans. Uses its tubular snout to suck in passing prey with a rapid pipette-like inhalation.
The robust ghost pipefish is the largest and most commonly encountered species of ghost pipefish in Komodo, yet it remains one of the most challenging animals to spot due to its extraordinary camouflage. Reaching up to 17 centimetres in length, this relative of seahorses and true pipefish drifts head-down among seagrass, algae, and debris, its greenish-brown body and ragged fin edges perfectly mimicking a piece of drifting leaf or seagrass blade. In Komodo, robust ghost pipefish are found at sheltered sites with seagrass beds, rubble fields, and areas with floating debris. They hover near the bottom in a characteristic head-down posture, gently swaying with the surge. Like the ornate ghost pipefish, it is the female that carries the eggs in a modified brood pouch formed by her fused pelvic fins. They are typically found in pairs, with the larger female drifting alongside the smaller male. Despite being more common than other ghost pipefish species, finding one still requires sharp eyes and a knowledgeable guide — or considerable luck. Each sighting is valued, as individual fish may remain in an area for only a few days before vanishing.
This species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem of Komodo National Park. Responsible diving practices help protect these animals and their habitat for future generations.
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Most sightings rely on experienced guides who check known areas where seagrass and debris accumulate. Look for a piece of seagrass that seems to be hovering in an unusual position or moving slightly against the current.
