This species looks like the calcareous green algae, Halimeda, with which it normally associates. It is green or green with white patches (like those seen on the dyeing algae). The nose is long, the caudal peduncle is narrow and the tail is not incised but more rectangular in shape. There are sometimes short filaments on the snout, body and fins that look like the epiphytic filamentous algae that is sometimes found growing on the Halimeda. All in all, this species is an outstanding mimic of its botanical namesake! ..This species should not be mistaken for the robust ghost pipefish (S. cyanopterus), which attains a larger size and has a very short caudal peduncle. The robust ghost pipe can also mimic green calcareous algae or sea grass, taking on the green coloration and short skin filaments
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