Dragonface Pipefish

The Dragonface Pipefish (Corythoichthys intestinalis) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its slender, elongated body marked with a delicate chain-like pattern, subtle coloration of red, brown, and white, and dragon-like facial features. Males typically carry fertilized eggs in a brood pouch located along their ventral side until they hatch, while females/juveniles are slightly smaller, lack the pouch, and display similar but less pronounced patterns. They reach about 6–8 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 50 gallons.

Provide live rock with plenty of hiding spots, a fine sandbed, and open swimming areas. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and ensure a secure lid as they can jump.

Diet should consist of live or frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and other small meaty foods. They can be delicate feeders and often require live foods until acclimated. With proper care, this fish makes a unique and captivating addition to a peaceful reef or community aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.