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Georgia-Pacific Cold Water Quest
Longspine snipefish
(Macroramphosus scolopax)
The longspine snipefish is found in the temperate waters of the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Indo-West Pacific. Adults live near the bottom on the lower continental shelf at depths to about 1,968 feet. Juveniles occupy waters nearer to the surface.
This species has a long snout that makes up about one-quarter of its body length. Its mouth is at the tip of the snout. Adult longspine snipefish can reach about 8 inches in length and have an oval-shaped, compressed, rigid body with scutes (bony plates) on the underside.
This uniquely-shaped fish can be seen hovering above the Japanese spider crabs in the Cold Water Quest gallery.
Fun Facts
- The longspine snipefish is related to sea horses and sea dragons. All are members of the Sygnathid family.
- Adults prey on bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
- In turn, the longspine snipefish is preyed upon by bony fish, sharks and rays.
- The second dorsal spine is long and serrated, which gives rise to its name.
- Populations in the North Atlantic are believed to spawn in the winter.
- Download full fact sheet
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