Keeping pipefish, what is your take on this?

[sphelps]

I don't think pipefish are any easier than seahorses, very similar in requirements IMO. I've seen more success with seahorses probably due to captive bred species becoming available. I believe most pipefish available are still wild caught but I could be wrong. Anyway I guess what I'm saying is that if you're leaning away from seahorses then pipefish aren't the answer.

[mandyplo]

Originally Posted by sphelps

I don't think pipefish are any easier than seahorses, very similar in requirements IMO. I've seen more success with seahorses probably due to captive bred species becoming available. I believe most pipefish available are still wild caught but I could be wrong. Anyway I guess what I'm saying is that if you're leaning away from seahorses then pipefish aren't the answer.

Only reason I was leaning away from seahorses was because I thought they were much more difficult to keep, and was under the impression pipefish were hardier. If I'm wrong and they're both equally as difficult to keep I'll wait for a better time when I feel I'm more capable and ready to keep them.

[sphelps]

I defiantly don't think they are hardier, more fragile if anything. I haven't really seen anyone keep them long term.

[mandyplo]

They only have a lifespan in captivity of roughly 3 years from what I've read

[sphelps]

3 years is long term, not saying that can't be done but they'll need special care just like seahorses. Many people assume otherwise and introduce them into their reef tanks, typically last a couple months.