REEF TOP PIPEFISH - (Corythoichthys haematopterus)

One of our favourite subjects. Often found in small groups in areas of sand, rubble and weed and in relatively shallow water. Related to seahorses, the female lays her eggs into the male’s brood pouch where they are incubated for a few weeks until hatched. It is common to see males with large bellies – these are the egg carriers. Often seen feeding in the open on swarms of tiny crustaceans – they rise from the bottom into the water column for a feeding frenzy! Very difficult to photograph front on.

Photography By John Warmington