Learning Zone
Worm pipefish - Nerophis lumbriciformis
Image Harvey Tyler-Walters - The worm pipefish Nerophis lumbriciformis under a boulder. Image width ca 25 cm.
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Nerophis lumbriciformis recorded (
) and expected (
) distribution in Britain and Ireland (see below)
Have you seen Nerophis lumbriciformis?
If so please submit your record.
Nerophis lumbriciformis is not listed under any importance categories.
Key identification features
- Slender, smooth worm like body up to 15 cm long.
- No fins apart from a small dorsal fin.
- Short upturned snout.
- Often dark in colour, usually green or brown.
- Master of camouflage.
Habitat
- Found on the lower shore in rock pools amongst seaweeds.
Species facts
- The male has responsibility for care of the eggs. The female transfers about 150 eggs into a shallow groove in male's belly.
- Egg-carrying males can be found from May to August.
Want to read more?
Have a look at the intermediate review.
Have you seen a worm pipefish? If so please submit your record.